BAGUIO CITY – In a united effort to promote environmental conservation, volunteers gathered on March 9, 2025, for the SEAHS Plogging 2025, an initiative that combined jogging with waste collection. The event, organized by the School of Engineering and Architecture Honor Society (SEAHS) of Saint Louis University, was conducted in partnership with Baguio Volunteer Groups, the Baguio Plogging Community, John Hay Management Corporation, and Northcom Security of Camp John Hay.
Following the Panagbenga Festival celebrations, the activity aimed to address post-event litter and foster environmental awareness. Participants assembled at Panagbenga Park at 6:30 AM before dispersing to designated cleanup sites, including Loakan Road, Scout Hill, VOA Road, Kadaclan Viewdeck, and various trails in Camp John Hay. The collected waste, amounting to 19 XXL-sized garbage bags, was brought to the Ayala Picnic Area, where a short program highlighted the importance of sustained environmental action.
Belinda Amaki-Ngolab, an officer from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Community Environment and Natural Resources Office in Baguio, highlighted the benefits of plogging, both for the environment and individuals. “Plogging helps protect the environment, especially wildlife, while also providing psychological, emotional, and physical benefits. There is a sense of fulfillment in knowing that you are contributing to your community and making a positive impact. More importantly, we are ensuring a cleaner environment for future generations. This initiative also encourages others to take action by keeping their surroundings clean,” she stated.
The event also served as a platform for individuals committed to environmental advocacy. Lyza Emelo, co-founder of the Baguio Ploggers, emphasized that plogging requires long-term commitment as waste pollution remains a persistent issue. She noted that while Baguio was once much cleaner, improper waste disposal has contributed to environmental degradation. Emelo expressed that plogging not only helps remove litter but also raises awareness through social media and community engagement, encouraging others to be more conscious of their waste disposal habits.
Naethan Modales of Baguio Volunteer Groups shared that his dedication to environmental initiatives was inspired by a bishop he encountered during his first visit to Baguio. The bishop’s commitment to addressing deforestation and environmental conservation motivated Modales to organize various initiatives with like-minded groups. By collaborating with other organizations, he hoped to expand environmental efforts and create a more significant impact on Baguio’s sustainability.
For SEAHS member Yuri Keith Joven, the event was an opportunity to engage young people in environmental action. “I have noticed a gap between environmental conservation and youth participation. As they say, we are the future generation, so it is only right that we take responsibility for protecting nature. Seeing my fellow Louisian volunteers smiling after the activity was a rewarding experience—it was a reminder that we are making a difference. This event also serves as a great bonding opportunity, which is why I will definitely endorse it to future SEAHS officers to ensure its continuity,” he said.
As the event concluded, Ngolab called for greater community involvement in preserving the environment. She urged residents to take an active role in maintaining the cleanliness of their surroundings, stressing that environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility. With the success of SEAHS Plogging 2025, organizers hope to inspire more individuals to adopt plogging as a sustainable practice.
Plogging is a term that originated from Sweden, combining the words “jogging” and “plocka upp,” which means “to pick up” in Swedish. It is an eco-friendly fitness trend that encourages people to collect litter while engaging in physical exercise, promoting both personal well-being and environmental sustainability. By Annjay Domilies
