Rotary Club of Metro Kalibo Joins First Laudato Si’ National Congress in Nabaoy, Malay, Aklan
On September 4, 2026, the Rotary Club of Metro Kalibo (D3850), led by President Leo Franklin Magno, partnered with the Diocese of Kalibo Ministry on Ecology and various environmental advocates for the First Laudato Si’ National Congress. Carrying the theme "Celebrating Creation, Protecting Our Common Home," delegates gathered at Narra Resort along the Nabaoy River in Malay, Aklan, for a meaningful day dedicated to prayer, ecological education, and community action.
The morning proceedings began with the solemn Mass of Creation, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Jayvee U. Delos Santos alongside the diocesan ministry team. Following the liturgy, participants gathered at the riverbanks for the ceremonial blessing of the river and seedlings, which immediately led into a hands-on tree planting activity focused on growing fruit-bearing trees to support local ecosystems.
In the afternoon, attendees participated in a series of technical deep-dive sessions. Expert speakers addressed critical ecological issues, including soil biodiversity conservation by Biodeversity Advocate - Ms. Angeline Templonuevo of the Philippine Women's University; community action frameworks by the US Peace Corps volunteer Karen Tarnow, and coastal resilience initiatives tailored for Boracay Island by Dr. Resurreccion Sadaba, Professor 12 at UP Visayas.
This gathering formed part of a comprehensive multi-day environmental summit. On September 3, the Laudato Si' core group, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Kalibo and key partners, spearheaded the Air Symposium. The congress concluded on its third day with the BIOME 10 Biodiversity Congress held on Boracay Island, further uniting regional stakeholders around environmental stewardship.
Reflecting on the broader goal of these initiatives, Rev. Fr. Jayvee U. Delos Santos emphasized that the "Season of Creation 2026", serves as a cross-sector platform uniting science, faith, government, academia, and local communities. By bridging these diverse groups, the movement aims to turn shared values into concrete policy, ecological stewardship, and sustainable local action.
The Rotary Club of Metro Kalibo extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Diocese of Kalibo Ministry on Ecology. The club remains deeply honored to support these pivotal ecological initiatives.
Together, let us protect our common home and inspire hope for future generations.
Collaborate. Serve. Make an Impact!
For inquiries and partnerships, reach out to rcmetrokalibo@gmail.com.
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Submitted by: Megs Lunn
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