Photo courtesy of Anne Rebagay / The LANCE
Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Manila launched its new E-Waste Management Program bringing together student leaders and faculty to promote proper electronic waste disposal and long-term environmental care, on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Mabini Hall.
The program was organized by the Letran Sustainability Committee, headed by Rev. Fr. Patricio P. Hiwatig, O.P., with Asst. Prof. Leo Bernadas as co-chair.
During the opening remarks, Bernadas said the committee aims to help the institution strengthen its sustainability efforts.
“As we launch this program, may we carry this torch with renewed purpose, may we strive to make our campus a model of stewardship,”
Following that, the committee also presented Letran’s Sustainability Principles, which include implementing a Colegio-wide e-waste program, providing a proper avenue for disposal, and raising awareness on reducing carbon waste.
Asst. Prof. Manuel R. Zamora discussed “Stewardship Spirituality and Leadership in the Light of Laudato Si” emphasizing leadership, sustainability, and spirituality.
“They are interconnected as three essential areas that must be cultivated simultaneously for Letranites to achieve their potential and live sustainably.”
He also emphasized avoiding the irresponsible use of resources and “throwaway culture,” saying sustainability means ensuring that future Letranites can enjoy the same resources.
A panel of reactors followed, where they discussed relationship sustainability, virtue ethics, leadership, and spirituality. Yazmin Sanchez, a student reactor, highlighted the importance of volunteerism, saying that sustainable actions cannot happen without people choosing to take part in change.
Rev. Fr. Hiwatig then presented the Letran Sustainability Framework that aligns with ESG principles, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and Laudato Si’.
Letran Sustainability Framework focuses on four areas which are environmental sustainability, community extension, academic sustainability, and financial sustainability.
He reminded the community of their role as caretakers of the institution, saying, “Inaalagaan mo ang Letran dahil mahal mo ang Letran.”
The event formally launched the E-Waste Management Program through a ceremonial turnover of electronic waste.
The event concluded with Mr. Michael Maglaque, director of the Community Extension Department (CED) emphasizing that stewardship means managing resources wisely and recognizing the value of sustainability in everyday actions.