InsiderPH features the inspiring stories of Metrobank Foundation’s awardees as Outstanding Filipino for 2024 — teachers, soldiers and police officers who are making significant contributions to nation building.
As a biology teacher at Kabasalan National High School, he has seamlessly integrated ecological knowledge into the curriculum, inspiring a generation of environmentally conscious students.
Through his collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region 9, Sir Poy’s pioneering spirit is evident in his facilitation of the Youth for Environment in Schools Organization (YES-O), which has become a model for environmental education impacting not only Zamboanga Sibugay, but the entire Zamboanga Peninsula. Since its inception in 2013, YES-O has empowered countless young people in the region to become active stewards of their environment.
One of the flagship programs under YES-O, ‘Dalaw Turo (Reach-to-Teach) Advocacy’, exemplifies Sir Poy’s commitment to reaching underserved communities.
By bringing environmental education to last-mile barangays, the program has fostered a deep appreciation for nature and inspired young minds to become agents of change.
Through storytelling, hands-on activities such as tree planting, and community engagement, Dalaw Turo (Reach-to-Teach) Advocacy has empowered about 200 children to be environmental stewards while addressing their basic needs through food packs and learning kits.
Sir Poy’s innovative spirit is further evidenced by the plantable paper project launched in 2019. Addressing the pressing issue of paper waste within the school, he and his team transformed discarded paper into a resource for reforestation.
By transforming discarded paper into a medium for growth, this initiative not only reduced environmental impact but also generated income for students. The project garnered regional and national acclaim for its ingenious approach to waste management and environmental education.
Sir Poy’s dedication to environmental stewardship is evident in his numerous community-driven initiatives.
The Adopt-a-Watershed Program, launched in 2016, has transformed into a cornerstone of the community, restoring over 63 hectares of land and providing clean water to more than 25,000 residents. By addressing deforestation and water scarcity, this program has significantly enhanced the community’s resilience.
In response to the devastating impact of Typhoon Vinta in 2017, Sir Poy spearheaded Project DYES (Developing Youth towards Eco-friendly Society) to rehabilitate the critically damaged municipal watershed. Through reforestation and community engagement, the project has been instrumental in mitigating flood risks and promoting ecological balance.
Recognizing the importance of protecting vital ecosystems and inspired by the three-decade conservation efforts of the community’s fisherfolk, Sir Poy initiated the Wetland Conservation Program.
By involving local students in conservation efforts, this initiative sustains in safeguarding the Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve, a crucial habitat for diverse flora and fauna.
Sir Poy’s ability to mobilize students and communities toward positive environmental change has garnered numerous accolades, including the 2022 Mga Kwentong “KLIMA-likasan” National Winner, the 2021 Youth Envi Icon, and the 2019 Water Leadership Award of the DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau.
His innovative projects now serve as sustainability blueprints that can be replicated in similar areas across the Philippines.
Sir Poy earned his Bachelor of Secondary Education majoring in Biological Sciences from Western Mindanao State University-Ipil External Studies Unit in 2012 as Cum Laude. Pursuing further expertise, he completed his academic requirements for Master in Science Teaching Major in Biological Sciences at Ateneo de Zamboanga University in 2015.
Sir Poy’s legacy is now etched in the verdant landscapes and empowered communities of Zamboanga Peninsula. From the classroom to the watershed, his commitment to environmental education has cultivated a generation of eco-warriors.
As Sir Poy aptly states, “To involve our young ones in addressing today’s environmental concerns is to create a green, healthy, and sustainable tomorrow.”
His unwavering dedication is fueled by the love and support of his wife, Devine Grance, and his precious baby girl, Freigh, who inspire him to create a better world for future generations.
Sir Poy embodies the spirit of a true environmental champion, inspiring others to follow his lead in building a greener world. — Metrobank Foundation
