𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐒 | DENR Central Luzon honors TAU for Environmental Stewardship
“Recognizing Partners for Sustainability and Progress for a Greener Future,” the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region III awarded Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) a Plaque of Recognition for its environmental governance, sustainable development, and ecological protection in a ceremony at the DENR Social Hall, City of San Fernando, Pampanga, on 19 June.
Coinciding with the Philippine Environment Month, which carries this year’s theme: “Ending Global Plastic Pollution,” the Gawad Kalikasan acknowledged TAU for its sustainable initiatives, including research on eco-friendly agricultural practices, reforestation efforts, and community-based ecological projects.
Gawad Kalikasan is an annual recognition ceremony that highlights the contributions of outstanding partners and stakeholders who have played a pivotal role in advancing DENR’s environmental programs and advocacies.
Representing TAU President Dr. Silverio Ramon DC. Salunson in the function, Dr. Leonell P. Lijauco, Vice President for Planning and Quality Assurance (VPPQA), emphasized the importance of interagency collaboration in addressing crucial environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution. “TAU has shown how academic institutions like TAU can lead by example in promoting sustainability,” Dr. Lijauco stated. “DENR’s programs align with our mission to conserve natural resources while empowering communities to follow a roadmap toward a resilient and greener future.”
In steadfast alignment with national and global environmental goals, Dr. Salunson affirmed his unwavering commitment to positioning Tarlac Agricultural University as a model of academic environmental stewardship, sustained its efforts in sustainable agriculture, waste reduction, biodiversity conservation, and community empowerment—anchored in research-informed strategies such as the no single-use plastic campaign, bamboo-based innovations, and reforestation programs—while strengthened interagency partnerships that advanced a resilient, equitable, and plastic-free future grounded in shared responsibility and long-term impact.
Meanwhile, Dr. Salunson expressed gratitude to DENR for the recognition, as such “reaffirms TAU’s commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture, waste reduction, and biodiversity conservation.” He also highlighted TAU’s ongoing projects, such as no single-use plastic campaign, free water tumblers, and research on bamboo as an alternative building material.
As the country observes Philippine Environment Month, TAU’s recognition serves as a reminder that collective action is vital in mitigating the effects of climate change and reducing pollution. With continued collaboration, a sustainable and plastic-free future remains within reach..
#SmartTAU #GreenandGlobal #DENR #GawadKalikasan #SDG6 #SDG12 #SDG13 #SDG17
Article | Information Unit
Photos | Office of the Vice President for Planning and Quality Assurance