AFoCO successfully carried out the Youth Volunteer Dispatch Project for Climate Crisis Response in the Philippines, in collaboration with Khayah International and Energy Development Corporation (EDC). This project not only fostered environmental awareness among youth volunteers but also strengthened AFoCO’s partnerships with EDC, a leading renewable energy company in the Philippines, and Khayah International, a key partner in youth exchange programs. These partnerships have laid a solid foundation for future youth volunteer projects across Asia.
During the program, the youth volunteers engaged in various hands-on activities at multiple sites, working closely with local communities and partner organizations. At the AFoCO 040 project site, volunteers conducted native and endangered tree planting and maintenance activities in collaboration with The Alliance of Bacman Farmers Association (ALBAFAI), contributing to reforestation and community resilience efforts.
At Inang Maharang Elementary School and Casa Miani Orphanage, volunteers led environmental education programs, including hygiene training, upcycling workshops, and cultural exchange activities, nurturing environmental awareness and sustainable habits among children.
In the Cawit Coastal Community, located in the EDC-managed Mangrove Eco Park, volunteers participated in mangrove education and restoration activities, as well as nipa palm weaving workshops with local residents, helping to promote both environmental conservation and alternative livelihoods for the community.
At Sorsogon State University, a climate action and cultural exchange expo was held, providing a platform for Filipino and Korean youth to exchange ideas, promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and strengthen youth networks for climate action.
These diverse experiences not only provided valuable lessons on sustainable practices and community engagement but also highlighted the importance of collaborative action between youth, local communities, and various institutions in addressing the climate crisis.
With the success of this project, AFoCO looks forward to expanding youth volunteer dispatch programs across Asia, continuing to work closely with local communities, and regional partners to cultivate the next generation of climate leaders dedicated to protecting forests, ecosystems, and communities.
Contributed by Hansol Lee, Consultant of Strategic Planning Team
