The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Davao successfully convened the region’s most talented young minds for its annual MakakaLIKHAsan Essay-Writing and Photography Contests, held as part of Climate Change Consciousness Week on November 19–25. The event aimed to amplify youth voices in advocating for environmental protection and conservation through creative expression.
Spanning two days, the competition showcased exceptional works from public school students across the Davao Region, culminating in the recognition of the top three winners in each category.
Essay-Writing Contest Champions Thought-Provoking Ideas
Seven schools vied for the essay-writing title, with Anika G. Mankao of F. Bangoy National High School in Davao City clinching the championship. Her essay, Behind the Clock, delved into the Philippines’ delayed adoption of climate action technologies compared to its Asian neighbors, despite being among the most vulnerable nations to climate change. She called for behavioral shifts and accountability to counteract the country’s climate inaction.
The second-place winner, Noelah Jane B. Loregas of Davao City National High School, presented Icarus Wings: How the Stubbornness of the World Burned Itself Down, offering a powerful critique of humanity’s destructive habits. Gweeneth Hillary V. Gador from Sto. Tomas National High School in Davao del Norte rounded out the top three with A Tale of Wisdom: Resilience and Climate Change, a narrative celebrating resilience amid environmental challenges.
Visual Storytelling Dominates Photography Contest
The photography competition showcased the creative talents of eight schools, with Hanah Carry B. Molina of Bato National High School in Davao del Sur emerging as the winner. Her photograph, Roots of Joy: Nature’s Playground Amidst Challenges, captured children playing in nature, subtly highlighting the urgent need for better waste management to preserve such moments for future generations.
The second spot went to Dolly Rose P. Cubero of Sto. Tomas National High School, whose photo Past and Future depicted members of the Ata Manobo tribe planting trees, blending cultural heritage with environmental responsibility. Third place was awarded to Mesha Hagonos Eridia from Fishing Village Comprehensive National High School in Davao Occidental for her image, Catch Reliably and Not Violently: Using Fish Nets for a Healthier Ocean and Tomorrow, which promoted sustainable fishing practices over destructive methods.
Distinguished Panel of Judges
Both contests were evaluated by distinguished experts in their respective fields. The essay-writing panel included Mr. Big Jay Lagang of PTV Mindanao, Ms. Jenny Grace M. Mendoza of the Department of Trade and Industry, and DENR Davao’s Ms. Cylle Marie Nadonza-Cleofe. The photography competition was judged by renowned visual artist Ms. Jojie Ferrando Alcantara, award-winning photographer Mr. Mishael Jacob Pueblas, and DENR Davao’s Ms. Christine I. Salvador.
A Call to Action for Future Generations
Through MakakaLIKHAsan, DENR Davao highlighted the critical role of the youth in addressing climate change and environmental degradation. By intertwining creativity with advocacy, the contest fostered a deeper understanding of the planet’s challenges and inspired proactive efforts toward sustainability.
DENR Davao envisions these young voices as catalysts for transformative change, carrying the torch of environmental stewardship for generations to come.
