Dr. Leonardo Co’s poignant assertion, “You cannot effectively protect what you do not care for and you cannot care for what you do not know nor understand,” resonates deeply with the interconnectedness of knowledge, care, and environmental stewardship. This principle is especially relevant in the context of the Hiligaynon term "Katunggan," which refers to mangrove areas. Just as mangroves serve as vital ecosystems that nurture a diverse array of life, the youth represent a budding potential that must be cultivated through mentorship and education before they can face the complexities of environmental challenges.

The analogy between youth and mangroves emphasizes the necessity of strong foundations for growth. Like viviparous mangroves that thrive in intertidal zones, our young generation requires guidance from mentors and families to develop an understanding of ecological principles. This nurturing environment equips them with the resilience needed to navigate harsh realities when they eventually disperse into society.

Furthermore, engaging in environmental protection is no endeavor for the faint-hearted; it demands dedication and courage. The role of youth in conservation efforts is paramount, as they will inherit this planet and its myriad challenges. By fostering their connection to nature through education and experiential learning, we ensure that they grow into informed advocates who can effectively protect our environment—just as healthy mangroves safeguard coastal ecosystems.

Day 1 of the conference was an enlightening experience, filled with a wealth of knowledge and innovative ideas shared by keynote speakers, organizers, and fellow delegates. The day commenced with Miss Genea's crash course on the significance of mangroves, where she effectively illustrated how creativity can enhance conservation efforts.

The plenary discussion featuring the Global Mangrove Alliance Philippines left me in awe of their impactful work and inspiring narratives of both success and challenges in environmental conservation. Dr. Jurgenne Primavera, a distinguished mangrove scientist from the Zoological Society of London, provided a historical overview of Philippine mangrove conservation while sharing her invaluable insights alongside other dedicated advocates. Her contributions underscored the importance of scientific understanding in driving effective conservation strategies.

After an intellectually stimulating day filled with lectures and discussions, we finally had the opportunity to stretch our legs as we prepared to pitch our tents and hammocks. This moment allowed me to engage more personally with my fellow delegates; bonding over shared passions fostered camaraderie among us. The first night concluded around a warm bonfire where stories about environmental conservation were exchanged—each tale reinforcing our commitment to protecting our planet while reminding us that collective action is vital for achieving lasting change.

As the sun began to rise, casting a golden hue over the landscape, the early morning hours beckoned us to embark on a birdwatching activity and nature walk in the LPPWP area. The phrase “the early bird catches the worm” resonated deeply as we prepared ourselves for this enriching experience. Immersing ourselves in nature not only heightened our appreciation for biodiversity but also set a reflective tone for the day ahead.

Engaging with approximately thirty participants during this workshop illustrated the old adage “two heads are better than one.” The collaborative atmosphere fostered diverse perspectives that enriched our discussions and ultimately led to innovative ideas flowing like an abundant waterfall. In a limited timeframe, we successfully drafted a comprehensive two-year campaign plan aimed at youth engagement in conservation efforts.

As the summit concluded, my heart swelled with inspiration and renewed passion for mangrove conservation. Interacting with like-minded individuals who share similar fervor invigorated my commitment to environmental stewardship. I am immensely grateful to my LGU-Carles family for their unwavering support of my endeavors and to my own family, whose encouragement has been instrumental since day one.