De La Salle Lipa (DLSL), for the second time, makes it as a finalist in the prestigious 2022 International Green Gown Awards (IGGA) under the Benefitting Society Category. The school garnered the same merit in two other categories in 2020.

IGGA is a prestigious award-giving body in association with Allianz Global Investors. It is also endorsed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and supported by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), L’Agence Universitarie De La Francophonie (AUF), and the International Association of Universities (IAF).

The IGGA has once again recognized DLSL’s efforts in implementing sustainability initiatives to make the world a better place. This accolade affirms the school’s efforts to implement impactful changes not just with students but also with communities. DLSL has long made it its mission to carry out the UN Global Goals of providing sustainable solutions to address climate problems, as well as the critical environmental challenges in the world.

This award aligns with DLSL’s objectives to stay proactive in finding solutions to problems. The school has always seen itself as an agent of change, from doing small initiatives like implementing recycling programs to extending a helping hand to the frontliners during the pandemic. Members of the DLSL community have always inspired each other to take concrete steps to effect changes in the campus and their homes.

For this year, the DLSL community members embarked on a higher journey to immerse themselves with the Mangyans, a cultural group of indigenous people from Mindoro. It is the school’s way to share the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which is to fight for the rights and foster the well-being of indigenous people.

A team of DLSL volunteers established Hanunuo Mangyan Livelihood and Consumers Cooperative (HAMALICON) in various towns where the Mangyans reside. As a result, the 110 members of the cooperative, including many households in the area, gained access to basic goods and necessities. This organization also provided part-time employment to some members.

On top of that, Paaralang Mangyan na Angkop sa Kulturan Aalagaan (PAMANA KA) was established in partnership with DLSL IPED. This educational teacher-mentoring partnership program is a great opportunity for all the teacher participants and trainers to learn from each other. Through this initiative, there is constant cooperation, communication, and collaboration, which are elements needed to uplift lives and foster lasting changes. Sharing knowledge and experiences is one way to bridge learning gaps, especially for indigenous communities, who safeguard the environment, resources, and culture that the Filipino heritage is rooted in.

The IGGA award initiative is open to any university or college around the globe. With fierce competition from many contenders in various parts of the world, it is no mean feat to belong to the esteemed roster of finalists. Thus, the DLSL community feels jubilant and proud of this latest accomplishment.