We Power C.A.R.E.: Communities, Schools, and Experts Unite for Biodiversity in Nabas

Nabas, Aklan — A bright, purposeful morning at the PWEI View Deck in Brgy. Pawa saw local officials, students, environmental officers, and academic experts come together for the We Power C.A.R.E. (Conservation, Awareness, Restoration, and Ecotourism) training series—an initiative focused on protecting and restoring the local flora and fauna adopted by PetroWind Energy Inc.

The training held on October 10, 2025  blended classroom-style presentations with practical discussion, guided by resource persons from the University of the Philippines Los Baños.

Topics centered on species identification, habitat restoration techniques, and community-based stewardship.

A clear message resonated throughout the event: effective conservation depends on knowledge sharing between scientists, local government, youth organizations, and industry partners.

Representatives from LGU Nabas, secondary schools, Sangguniang Kabataan, DENR PENRO Aklan, and CENRO Culasi (Antique) took active roles—listening, asking questions, and exchanging ideas on how to translate training into on-the-ground action. The collaborative atmosphere was evident in the group photos and during the certificate presentations, where participants celebrated newly gained skills and renewed commitments to environmental care.

“PetroGreen Energy Corporation’s long-term commitment—framed in the program as a 30-year pledge to protect biodiversity—was highlighted through slides and materials shown during the session,” said Vanessa Peralta, vice president of communication of PWEI.

Participants were encouraged to view the company’s support as a platform for community-led conservation projects: school-based habitat clubs, barangay tree-planting drives, and citizen monitoring of wildlife and restoration sites.

This gathering was more than a workshop; it was an investment in people. By linking academic expertise with local knowledge and the energy sector’s resources. We Power C.A.R.E. also planted the seeds for sustained environmental stewardship not only in Nabas, but the entire Northwestern Panay Peninsula.