The Unity of Environmental Advocates

Another year, another milestone.  The Pollution Control Association of the Phils., Inc. (PCAPI) celebrated its 46^th National Annual Convention and General Assembly.

From May 20 to 22, 2026, the lush haven of Palawan played host to an inspiring convergence of minds and hearts at the 46th National Annual Convention & General Assembly of the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PCAPI). Under the stirring theme, “Supercharging Innovative Strategies, Equitable, and Nature-Based Solutions through Strengthening Capacity and Protection,” this transformative gathering united environmental champions from government halls, corporate boardrooms, and community frontlines, all bound by a shared vision for a greener, fairer, and more resilient Philippines.

Setting the Stage

The event started by the marching ceremony participated by the Presidents/Representatives from each PCAPI Regional Chapters followed by the Advisers, Trustees and Officers of the association, and the esteemed guests. The Puerto Princesa City Council scout members conducted the Parade of Colors. The invocation, Philippine National Anthem and PCAPI Hymn was exquisitely performed by the Puerto Princesa City Chorale. Setting the mood of the crowd was the vibrant cultural performance of Puerto Princesa City Banwa Dancers for the opening salvo.

Inspiring Messages

It is truly an honor to be warmly welcomed by the LGU in every region, province or city we hold the convention by delivering their remarkable message as part of the program. The City Mayor Hon. Lucilo Bayron was represented by the City Tourism Officer, Mr. Demetrio “Toto” C. Alvior to deliver his speech. It was followed by the empowering welcome message of the association’s President, Ms. Luzviminda A. Angeles as she delivers her heartfelt appreciation to everyone who have participated and supported the event. The convention was formally opened by this year’s Convention Chairperson, Engr. Fernando R. Ramos. His message sets the tone, marking the commencement of the 3-day event that is filled with knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Giving one remarkable, inspirational keynote message is the EMB-MIMAROPA Regional Director Joe Amil Salino. His insightful message that innovation and collaboration are one of the key factors in addressing environmental concerns.

Embracing New Roles, Cultivating Green Legacies

Setting the stage for the Plenary Session on Stakeholder Engagement & Communication, Mr. Jose Arnulfo Batac, President and CEO of Megaworld Corporation, shared how Pollution Control Officers (PCOs) are evolving as sustainability champions, extending beyond regulatory compliance to actively shaping eco-friendly communities. No longer confined to ensuring compliance, they now actively shape communities rooted in green spaces, renewable energy, and thoughtful waste and water management. Megaworld’s ambitious “Million Trees by 2025” campaign, already nurturing over half a million seedlings, alongside community initiatives like Brigada Eskwela and Coastal Cleanup, echo a shared commitment to healing the land and nurturing its people. Infrastructure projects such as the Rainwater Retention Pond in Maple Grove embody the harmony of modern innovation and nature’s wisdom.

Moving forward is another Plenary Session on Expanding PCOs Role. Echoing the importance of collaboration, Atty. Theodore Jose S. Mata of the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) detailed the Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP) tailored specifically for Palawan Biosphere Reserve’s ecological and social needs. The SEP integrates zoning through ECAN (Environmentally Critical Areas Network), clearances via a streamlined permitting system, wildlife and cave management, and rigorous monitoring and evaluation. He stressed that sustained ecological viability requires social acceptance achieved through advocacy, education, and direct multi-stakeholder engagement, illustrated by initiatives such as the Tubbataha inter-agency collaboration between DENR and PCSD and the community-led Marine Research Initiative (MRI).

Engagements and Collaborations

For PCAPI, collaboration and engagement with other organizations are fundamental to advancing its mission. The association continues to partner with other organizations not only to focus on environmental protection but also on occupational safety and health. This year, this commitment was further strengthened through the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Association of Safety Practitioners in the Philippines, Inc. (ASPPI). The partnership was formalized by the PCAPI President Ms. Luzviminda A. Angeles and ASPPI President Engr. George Sebastian.

Recognizing Award-winning Sustainability Efforts and Initiatives

Since 2024, the association has once again taken the lead in recognizing outstanding sustainability efforts of industries, organizations, PCOs that have demonstrated excellence in environmental stewardship. Going beyond regulatory compliance is what drives these champions in environmental sustainability to keep on and aim not only to be recognized, but to serve as role models and inspiration for others through their best practices and initiatives towards sustainable future. This year’s PCAPI Awards Committee, headed by its Chairperson, Engr. Gretchen Fontejon-Enarle with its members Engr. Susan C. Benitez, Mr. Jeremiah Dwight C. Sebastian, Engr. Jess Reyes and Engr. Nericel Langres-Daulayan (2025 Mother Nature Awardee) carefully reviewed, evaluated and assessed each submitted entries through 2-day virtual deliberations.

The winners for this year’s The Outstanding Pollution Control Officer (TOPCO) category were the following:

• Jamie Ann Gatdula – Progreen Agricorp Inc.
• Andreana Cole Bravante – San Jose Green Energy Corporation
• Saudia S. Casugudan – Taganito Mining Corporation
• Sherwin T. Sepe – University of San Agustin
• Arnyl P. Pedroza – San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corp.-Cebu Glass Plant

For the Sustainability Success Story Awards category:

• 2^nd Place – “Closing the Loop: Carbon Footprint Reduction through Agro-Industrial Symbiosis in Distillery Operations” – Progreen Agricorp, Inc.
• 1^st Place – “Cooling Tower Bleed-Off Reuse for Gob Chute Cooling Operations” – San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corp.-Cebu Glass Plant
• Best Success Story – “San Jose Agri-PhotoVoltaics Pilot Project” – San Jose Green Energy Corporation

For the Mother Nature Awards category:

• 2^nd Place – Taganito Mining Corporation
• 1^st Place – San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corp.-Manila Glass Plant
• Mother Nature Awardee – First Balfour, Inc.
• Outstanding Managing Head – Angeline D. Abibuag

Shaping the Future Leaders

To conclude day 1 of the 3-days event, candidates for this year’s PCAPI election were presented by the PCAPI COMELEC Chairperson, Adviser Engr. Susan C. Benitez. Through this, members were given the opportunity to get to know and get familiar with the background of each candidate.

Advancing Environmental Policy and Compliance

Kicking off the first Thematic Session on Environmental Laws and Compliance, the convention provided a vital platform for regulatory updates critical to environmental management. Dr. Carlos Primo David introduced new proposed wastewater standards aimed at tightening discharge regulations to protect waterways from pollution on his topic entitled, “Opportunities for Managing Philippine Land Resources (Potential Investment Areas)”.

Highlighting another topic from the Thematic Session on Environmental Laws and Compliance, is the presentation of Ms. Leonil Marie Gargar entitled, “Guidelines on Public Participation”. Emphasizing the meaningful engagement and transparency of communities, industries, government agencies in achieving an effective environmental governance.

From on-screen presentations of Dr. David and Ms. Gargar is followed by the on-site technical presentations of Engr. Jundy del Socorro and Mr. Jepp V. Farrales under the same Thematic Session on Environmental Laws and Compliance.

Engr. Jundy Del Socorro presented comprehensive updates on air quality monitoring, including revisions of National Ambient Air Quality Guideline Values, implementation of Euro 5 vehicle emission standards to lower vehicular pollution, and digitization initiatives like the Online Stack Sampling and Monitoring System (OSSMS) slated for 2025.

On waste management, Mr. Jepp V. Farrales reviewed recent National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) resolutions, emphasizing a national roadmap to drastically reduce plastic waste. These include bans on single-use plastic cups less than 0.2 mm thick, drinking straws, and non-environmentally acceptable products detailed in the 2024 Resolution No. 1707. Complementing these bans are Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies and proposed regulations targeting zero waste to Philippine waters by 2040, reflecting a systemic approach to pollution prevention.

Innovations for Environmental Excellence

Highlighting emerging trends and technologies are what the presentations from DOST-ITDI and First Gen Energy Development Corporation conveyed. Dr. Anabelle Briones’ presentation entitled, “Smart Environmental Monitoring through Artificial Intelligence and DOST-ITDI Innovations” showcased the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in improving environmental monitoring systems. With this, it shows that AI-supported can aide environmental operations more efficient and compliant.

Engr. Erlindo Angcoy’s presentation entitled, “Geothermal: Towards a Regenerative and Reimagined Energy Source” explored the evolving role of geothermal energy as sustainable and regenerative source of power in the country.

Growing the PCAPI Community

One of the event highlights was the recognition of the association’s new members. The addition of new members proves the capacity of PCAPI in promoting its mission and objectives towards environmental sustainability.

Harnessing Technology for Disaster and Climate Resilience

Responding to growing challenges on disaster risk and environmental hazards, several speakers showcased cutting-edge technological solutions. Engr. Rudolph Peralta of ADB-ARUP demonstrated the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital twin models in tracking and managing pollution in the Pasig River. Through these data-driven approaches, authorities can make informed policy decisions that pivot from reactive pollution management to proactive sustainability.

Mr. Randall Evangelista of SGS Philippines introduced sophisticated numerical models designed to predict flooding and earthquake risks. These include Hidromodel, a three-dimensional hydrodynamic simulation tool; wave propagation models; and seismic analysis systems measuring parameters such as tide levels, air temperature, and water quality. The new data visualization platform, VIEW S, along with sediment and oil spill modeling tools like Sedimentmap and Oilmodel, allow real-time environmental assessment and disaster response planning. These innovations significantly advance the country’s preparedness in climate adaptation.

In the mining sector, Mr. Jose Bayani Baylon of Nickel Asia Corporation illuminated how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks are increasingly embedded into operations, improving risk management and sustainability in a sector historically associated with environmental challenges.

Milestone in Leadership and Accountability

After the meaningful discussions of different technical topics is the time to give the members a glimpse of the association’s accomplishments and meet the newly elected trustees. The PCAPI President delivered her report with the association’s achievements, activities, collaborations and engagements over the past year. With this platform, the Regional Chapters were also given the opportunity to showcase how it was been with their association for the past year through an audio-video presentation (AVP).

A Night of Fellowship and Celebration

And as the sun sets for a day filled with learnings is followed by the Socials Night. This year’s theme of the party is Tropical Fiesta. Delegates and guests were dressed in colorful and vibrant tropical inspired attires. This party served its purpose to celebrate and reconnect with colleagues and create lasting memories that everyone will cherish and remember.

Integrating Environmental Justice and Green Infrastructure

A key focus of the convention was ensuring equitable and just environmental outcomes. Mr. Gregorio “Ditto” Dela Rosa from El Nido Resorts / Ayala Land Hospitality shared how nature-based solutions can harmonize luxury tourism with responsible stewardship. Their ESG framework addresses climate change mitigation, community relations, and labor practices while ensuring compliance with the Forest Land Use Agreement for Tourism Purposes (FLAgT).

Engr. John Reniel Englis of the Philippine Green Building Council (PhilGBC) addressed the vital role of green infrastructure in mitigating urban environmental impacts. Emphasizing green roofs, walls, rainwater harvesting systems, constructed wetlands, and vegetated open spaces, he delineated how these elements improve health, comfort, and ecological integrity within built environments. PhilGBC’s tools, including the Green Building Rating System (BERDE) and the Philippine Green Building Code, provide frameworks to guide sustainable design at building, community, and city scales. He acknowledged challenges but emphasized that sustainability integration is an opportunity involving all stakeholders.

Puerto Princesa City’s proactive environmental governance was highlighted by Mr. Carlo Curada, who detailed landmark ordinances driving the city toward carbon neutrality and banning single-use plastics like styrofoam and thin plastics. The city’s co-management frameworks empower local stakeholders in protected area stewardship while pioneering urban forestry initiatives using i-Tree and StewMap technologies. Grassroots ecotourism is leveraged as a model of green justice and community empowerment through participatory governance, further underscoring the city’s role as a national sustainability leader.

Our Partners and Supporters

Every year, the association also pays tribute to its valued partners, sponsors and exhibitors whose unwavering support has always been one of the factors in the success of the event. Through their generosity and innovative exhibits played vital role in elevating the experience and engagements of the delegates. Their continuous commitment reflects a shared vision in promoting environmental sustainability.

Giving Hope, Inspiring Change

The PCAPI-MIMAROPA has been the Partner Chapter of this year’s convention. Through their efforts and cooperation, the association was able to conduct its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through a donation to the “Unang Hakbang Project”. This project is an initiative of the late and former President of the PCAPI-MIMAROPA Chapter, Engr. Brix Abela and being continued by his wife, Ms. Hazel Abela. This project supports the early stages of education for the indigenous people of Palawan (Palau’an and Badjao).

Strengthening Capacity and Recognition

Throughout the convention, participants engaged in active dialogue supported by plenary sessions, thematic discussions, and open forums centered on environmental laws, technological innovations, climate resiliency, and justice. Repeated awarding ceremonies recognized the exemplary contributions of PCAPI members, partners, and regional chapters, reinforcing a culture of excellence and shared purpose.

The event’s comprehensive agenda, from opening messages by high-profile leaders to cutting-edge presentations and concluding general assembly reports, highlighted the indispensable role of capacity strengthening for environmental professionals. It reaffirmed that sustainable development depends on harnessing innovative strategies, fostering equitable participation, and protecting nature through informed action and partnership.

A Blueprint for the Future

The 46th PCAPI National Convention powerfully demonstrated that environmental sustainability and resilience in the Philippines rest on integrated approaches that combine technology, regulatory compliance, community involvement, and corporate responsibility. By embracing nature-based solutions, enforcing updated standards, and deepening collaboration among diverse stakeholders, the country is positioned to address complex environmental challenges in an era of climate uncertainty.

As the convention closed, participants left equipped with renewed knowledge, robust networks, and practical insights to drive transformative environmental stewardship, validating PCAPI’s mission to elevate the role of environmental professionals as catalysts for change and guardians of the nation’s natural heritage.