The US Peace Corps hosted a workshop in Iloilo City, training 36 students from the Philippine Science High School System (PSHS System) to design and implement sustainable, science-driven climate solutions in their communities.

Titled “Building Student Volunteer Leaders for Climate Change Initiatives,” the workshop was held from 18 to 22 November and focused on equipping students with the skills to conceptualize and prototype climate change solutions.

The participants, representing PSHS campuses nationwide, are expected to carry out these projects in collaboration with their local communities, demonstrating the power of youth-led volunteerism in tackling climate challenges.

Funded by the US Agency for International Development and co-facilitated by climate change experts from SEED4COM, the training is part of the U.S. Peace Corps’ broader efforts to address global climate issues by integrating climate change adaptation into its programs and activities.

“We are partnering with the PSHS System to tap into the potential of STEM education in climate action,” said Peace Corps Country Director Marguerite Roy. “I’m excited to see how these students will take this training, bring their projects to life, and inspire others to become agents of change.”

Alongside the students, 16 PSHS faculty members and eight Peace Corps Volunteers visited local climate resilience projects such as the Leganes Integrated Katunggan EcoPark and Orchard Valley Farm to deepen their understanding of climate change, biodiversity conservation, disaster risk reduction, and volunteerism.

“This program provides a structured framework for advocacy, which will be incorporated into our climate action plan for the PSHS System,” said PSHS System Executive Director Ronnalee Orteza.