25 September 2026

Benguet State University joined the 13th Balili River Day Celebration and International Coastal Clean-up.

The activity was spearheaded by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of La Trinidad through the La Trinidad Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) and facilitated by Forester Arthur Pedro. The celebration formally opened with remarks from Hon. Roderick Awingan, who emphasized the Binnadang Spirit of collective cooperation and shared responsibility and recognized the valuable contributions and concerted efforts of the various stakeholders of La Trinidad, Benguet in promoting environmental protection and the conservation of the Balili River.

The event was supported by various organizations, government agencies, academic institutions, and community stakeholders committed to environmental protection and the conservation of the Balili River and its surrounding ecosystems. As part of the celebration, designated areas along the Balili River were cleared of solid waste, contributing to efforts to improve the river’s cleanliness, promote proper waste management, and strengthen community participation in environmental conservation.

Representing BSU was the Young Environmentalists’ Society (YES), the official student organization of the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (BSES) program. The participation of YES highlighted the University’s commitment to promoting environmental awareness, stewardship, and active community engagement among its students.

The celebration provided an avenue for different stakeholders to strengthen their collective efforts toward river conservation, proper waste management, environmental protection, and sustainable community development. It also contributes to the targets of SDG 6 particularly 6.3 and 6.6 on removal of trash and pollutants from rivers which improves water quality and protects freshwater ecosystems; SDG 14 on the prevention of plastic waste and debris from flowing downstream into oceans and marine habitats; SDG 15 on restoring the health of riparian zones and riverside habitats for local flora and fauna; and SDG 17 as it unites community volunteers, local governments, schools for collective environmental action. Through activities such as the Balili River Day and International Coastal Clean-up, participating institutions and organizations demonstrated the importance of shared responsibility in protecting water resources and maintaining a healthy environment for present and future generations.//JPBalangen

#Binnadang

#OurEnvironmentOurReponsibility

#SDGs