Resisting environmental jeopardy, remembering history

In San Juan, Batangas, educational module “Barako 77” finds new home in school libraries

- By MAT T RICHTER

The youth shall inherit the planet. But it appears they are more informed about the latest influencer gossip and dance trends than climate warming that’s stripping away our only home.

This lack of initiative to combat the impending doom worsens when there are what look like limits on storytelling, lest we forget the harm hurled at truth-tellers. But at a school in San Juan, Batangas, students aren’t threatened by the limits, but moved, choosing to chronicle today the history of the town that once resisted environmental jeopardy.

Learners at Sico 1.0 National High School drew, wrote, and studied about the supposed construction of a copper smelter plant in the area, which would’ve plagued its rich biodiversity. Through a workshop and a proposed learning material by Barako Publishing, World Wide Fund (WWF) PH, and the local government, the youth saw fragments of their identity by remembering history, one that allows them to enjoy what was fought for: flora and fauna, livelihood, and the right to dissent.

These efforts have helped create the “Barako 77” educational module, which tackles the town’s conservation initiatives. Once approved, it will be included in the local curriculum in public and private schools. Here’s a look at how San Juanefios resist and remember.

It starts within the walls

Publisher Ciara Serumgard told Manila Bulletin (MB) that in the town, youth must be prepared to face challenges, including waste management, plastic pollution, limited access to clean water sources, and mitigating climate change impacts.