City partners with schools in fight vs climate change

CEBU, Philippines - Officials of the Cebu City Government and Cebu Academe Network represented by 16 universities and colleges signed a Memorandum of Understanding to efficiently implement environmental programs in the city, particularly in battling climate change.

During the 5th River Summit yesterday, Mayor Tomas Osmeña led the signing of the MOU, together with officials of universities and schools, which establishes the effort of the city government to institute sustainable and livable communities for the residents of the city.

"The Cebu City Government has had an outstanding relationship with the universities in Cebu City regarding partnerships and linkage for the promotion of a clean and better environment as established through the Suroy-Sapa Project, a component of the Guadalupe River Rehabilitation Project," the MOU reads.

Though the MOU, the city will also tap its departments that are essential in implementing environmental programs, like the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Department of Social Welfare and Services, Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office, Cebu City Planning Office, Association of Barangay Councils, and the Division for the Welfare of the Urban Poor.

Schools involved in the MOU are Cebu Normal University, Cebu Doctors University, Cebu Institute of Technology-University, Saint Theresa's College, Southwestern University, University of Cebu, University of San Carlos, University of San Jose Recoletos, University of Southern Philippines, Foundation, University of the Visayas, Velez College, University of the Philippines, Cebu Technological University, Colegio de la Imaculada Concepcion, Mandaue City College and St. Mary's Academy of San Nicolas.

DENR Undersecretary Isabelo Montejo, in his speech, urged the college students to participate in coming up with plans and programs to fight climate change.

"We cannot do this alone. We need the strong support and cooperation of our people, the citizens, and especially the youth. I am glad that the Cebu Academe Network has been a meaningful ally on this battle to clean and rehabilitate our rivers," he said. (FREEMAN)