In recognition of Ateneo de Davao University’s (ADDU) active participation in the Department of Environment & Natural Resources’ (DENR- XI) Adopt-an-Estero/Watershed Program, courtesy of its National Service Training Program-Civic Welfare Training Service (NSTP-CWTS) of the Arrupe Office of Social Formation, the former was given special recognition during the DENR’s Partner’s Forum held at the Grand Regal Hotel in Lanang, Davao City, on 9th December 2013.

            The recognition ceremony was facilitated by Regional Director Ester A. Olavides, and attended by DENR’s partner implementers, both educational institutions and local government units (LGUs).  As for the university’s NSTP-CWTS, it was specifically cited for actively conducting eco-friendly activities in support of the sub-activity called “Greening the Blue – Students Save Our Waters” under the Adopt-an-Estero/Watershed Program.  Ms. Agnes Sagaral, RSW, NSTP-CWTS coordinator, received the recognition certificate on behalf of the university.

           The university’s NSTP-CWTS has been actively involved in this endeavour of DENR and often fields its corps of students and student volunteers for this purpose.  Through the university’s commitment in preserving and protecting the environment, as codified in its vision-mission statement, it has proactively engaged in promoting eco-friendly initiatives and has constantly supported activities of the government and the private sector in pushing for a balanced and ecologically friendly city, in general.  In particular, the university’s ECOTENEO program banners this same concern in the promotion of an eco-friendly and green campus. (By M. Isabel S. Actub, Arrupe Communications & Advocacy)