Tagaytay City—Three members of the SVD Laudato Si’ Farm’s management team finished their participation in the Laudato Si’ Certified Environmental Trainer (LS-CET) program of the Don Bosco School of Theology (DBST). The program began on March 2, 2024, and ended on May 18, 2024.
Finally, last June 18, 2024, Ms. Joylene Leynes, Head of Operations Management Department,, Mr. Juan Miguel Ala-Tolentino, Head of the Corporate Communications Department, and Ms. Karen Peji, Sales and Marketing Officer (former Human Resource Officer), were formally certified by DBST under the LS-CET program.
Ms. Joy expressed her profound gratitude and shared the transformative experience she gained from the course. The LS-CET program, which uniquely integrates the principles of theology, ecology, and technology, left a lasting impact on her, inspiring her to "to apply Laudato Si' in all aspects of life."
"Before, I thought that there was a big gap between religion and science, but now, I realize that everything in this world is interconnected," said Ms. Joy.
According to Ms. Joy, the program "deepened (her) understanding about Pope Francis' encyclical," from its theoretical foundations to its practical applications. "From the first to the last day, the class inspired me and gave me the opportunity to mingle with different people and share the environmental advocacy of the SVD Farm," she continued.
Ms. Joy’s message reflects a newfound commitment to environmental care, specifically inspired by the program's discussions on climate change and local environmental issues. She mentioned the case of Sibuyan Island as one such discussion that changed her mindsent. "The class made me more caring for our environment," she noted.
Read more about the case of Sibuyan Island and its "decades of opposition to mining" through the Rappler feature below:
TIMELINE: Sibuyan Island’s decades of opposition to mining
Inspired by her experiences, Ms. Joy said that she is now dedicated to spreading the knowledge she gained. "I will share what I have learned and educate the people in my community, starting from my home," she promised.
At the SVD Farm, where Ms. Joy is actively involved as the Operations Management Department Head, she plans to promote proper waste management and composting, actions that align with the principles of Laudato Si’.
Concluding her message, Ms. Joy extended her heartfelt thanks to DBST. "Through what we have learned, we here at the SVD Farm promise to do our best to protect God’s creation," said Ms. Joy.
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Mr. Tolentino's message regarding the LS-CET program highlighted its focus on fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and shared responsibility. "The LS-CET program was a profoundly impactful experience for me," he said.
As someone deeply involved in the communications and advocacy efforts of the SVD Farm, Mr. Tolentino shared that one of the most memorable aspects of the program for him was the exploration of shared responsibility in environmental stewardship.
"In a way, those with greater power bear greater responsibility," he reflected. He also shared how the LS-CET program provided him with valuable insights into managing the responsibility of the SVD Farm's communication efforts. "The LS-CET taught me that while responsibility is significant, it is manageable with the right frameworks and support systems."
The LS-CET program introduced Mr. Tolentino to several such existing frameworks, such as the Laudato Si' Goals and Plan, which he said are valuable for organizations like the SVD Farm.
Mr. Tolentino shared his thoughts about the unique position of the SVD Farm, operated by the SVD Tagaytay Community and supported by various partner organizations. This collaboration places the SVD Farm in a potent position to effect significant environmental change. "Recognizing this potential also brings great responsibility, which the LS-CET helped me understand more profoundly," he said.
In closing, Mr. Tolentino expressed his gratitude to DBST. "Mapagpalang pasasalamat po, DBST, for this enlightening program," he said. His hope is that the LS-CET program marks the beginning of a fruitful and ongoing collaboration, inspired by the shared mission of Laudato Si’.
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Ms. Karen shared her thoughts about the LS-CET program's ability to deepen understanding, foster meaningful dialogue, and inspire committed action towards environmental justice.
For Ms. Karen, one of the most inspiring topics discussed during the program was the concept of "integral ecology," which emphasizes "the interdependence of social, economic, and environmental systems."
The LS-CET program also covered critical environmental challenges, including climate change, deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss. "Learning about these issues reinforced the sense of urgency for collective action," Ms. Karen noted. These discussions, said Ms. Karen, not only raised awareness but also underscored the need for immediate and sustained efforts to address these pressing concerns.
The program's emphasis on dialogue and community was another highlight for Ms. Karen. "The course sparked meaningful conversations with my peers and fostered a sense of solidarity around environmental issues," she remarked.
Reflecting on her LS-CET journey, Ms. Karen shared that she is "(determined) continue learning, growing, and advocating for environmental justice."
"Thank you, DBST, for the LS-CET program, which was a truly transforming experience for me," Ms. Karen concluded, adding that she was "committed to translate what (she) learned into meaningful action," especially through her work at the SVD Farm.
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Fr. Samuel N. Agcaracar, SVD, Executive Director of the SVD Farm and Rector of the SVD Tagaytay Community, gave his full support for the three managers who attended the LS-CET program. In fact, Fr. Sam joined them during one of the activities of the program.
Fr. Sam also shared his hope that the LS-CET qualification of the SVD Farm's managers would be the first step towards the SVD Farm improving and expanding its commitment to sustainable knowledge.
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Read more about the SVD Farm’s first-ever Laudato Si’ Seminar, facilitated by Ms. Joy, Mr. Tolentino, and Ms. Karen, through the links below: