A Gathering of Environmental Stewards

The Pollution Control Association of the Phils., Inc. (PCAPI) – National held its 45^th National Annual Convention & General Assembly on May 14-16, 2025 at the country’s “City of Golden Friendship”, Cagayan de Oro of Northern Mindanao.

This year’s theme: “Moving Beyond Compliance: Reinforcing Our Role in Keeping the Balance in Nature” encompasses the collective commitment of stakeholders to transcend regulatory requirements, science-based environmental stewardship, and keeping sustainability amidst the environmental issues our nature is facing.

The convention drew approximately 450 delegates from various sectors across the country, reflecting the growing relevance and strength of the association as a unifying platform for environmental governance and professional collaboration.

Opening Ceremonies and Cultural Performances: Setting the Tone of Purpose

The opening moments were kicked off with the marching ceremony of the PCAPI Regional Partners/Chapters and PCAPI National Board of Trustees and Advisers. Parade of colors was led by the Xavier University Colors and followed by a well-orchestrated choir performance of Xavier University Glee Club for the invocation, National Anthem and the association’s hymn. It was then followed by an evocative ethnic performance that celebrated the region’s cultural heritage, immersing the audience in its traditions by the Youth Performing Arts of Claveria and setting the stage for the activities that lined up in the program.

Distinguished Guests and Messages of Support

After the energetic and vibrant performance of the Youth Performing Arts of Claveria, the program proceeds with the opening remarks by the PCAPI National President, Dr. Shirlyn Chua-Reyes as she extends the greetings on behalf of the association and underscoring the purpose and significance of the annual convention.

This year’s Convention Chairman and Vice President for Chapter Development of the association, Engr. Remedios Camo, led the formal opening of the convention, marking its official commencement. In her address, she expressed her heartfelt gratitude and warm appreciation to the guests, delegates, co-trustees, and team members who generously dedicated their time and effort to attend and support the event.

The event was further elevated by the inspiring, purpose-driven, and thought-provoking messages delivered by our distinguished keynote speakers. These included the Local Government Unit representative, Engr. Rene Guingging, PLENRO Head Engineer, speaking on behalf of former Misamis Oriental Governor Gov. Peter Unabia; Environmental Management Bureau (EMB)–Region 10 Regional Director For. Reynaldo Digamo; the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)–Region 10 representative, Mr. Roel Dahonog, Chief of the Conservation and Development Division, representing Regional Executive Director Henry Adornado; and Engr. Maria Dorica Naz-Hipe, CESO IV, Assistant Director, representing the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB)–Central Office.

Sponsors and Exhibits: Showcasing Innovation and Support

Throughout the years, the association’s members continue to show their unwavering support by actively contributing to the success of the event. Their commitment is evident as they come on board as sponsors and take part as exhibitors, using the platform to highlight their innovative environmental solutions, cutting-edge technologies, and professional services. Through their participation, members not only reinforce the association’s shared advocacy but also help advance meaningful dialogue and collaboration toward sustainable and responsible environmental practices. The convention’s sponsors played a vital role in making the event possible, providing generous support that enhanced both the learning and networking experience.

Advancing Knowledge Through Technical Presentations

One of the key highlights of this annual event was the presentation of the Technical Sessions by the esteemed speakers from different industry sectors and government agencies. This year, 15 topics were presented and organized under 7 thematic sessions, which were curated carefully by the program committee to reflect the challenges and opportunities in environmental management and sustainability practices.

Each session served as a venue for discussions, allowing delegates to engage directly with the subject matter experts through the moderated open forum to provide everyone the opportunity to express and exchange ideas, perspectives for a particular matter.

Through these technical presentations, the convention was able to successfully justify the theme of moving beyond compliance, providing the delegates with valuable knowledge and solutions that can further help them as they continue to be environmental sustainability champions. These topics also reaffirmed the association’s dedication to learning and leadership in preserving the nature’s balance aside from enhancing professional competence.

Recognizing Excellence in Environmental Sustainability

Another important highlight of this convention was the Environmental Sustainability Awards, which honors and recognizes the efforts and initiatives of the individuals and industries as they promote environmental sustainability towards their community and other stakeholders.

The categories for the Environmental Sustainability Awards are: The Outstanding Pollution Control Officers (TOPCO), Success Story and Mother Nature Awards. For this year, 9 distinguished exceptional competent Pollution Control Officers participated in the TOPCO Category and one of them earned the highest distinction for this category which is the Gen. Guillermo Pecache Award; 14 companies participated and demonstrated their innovative and effective environmental programs under the Success Story Awards category while 8 companies for the Mother Nature Awards category also presented their significant contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

With these award categories, the association highlighted its commitment to recognizing excellence, inspiring best practices, and encouraging stakeholders to move beyond compliance in safeguarding nature and promoting responsible development.

Election of Officers and Trustees

A key component of this year’s convention and general assembly was the election of new officers and trustees. For this year, the association successfully filled all trustee positions, ensuring representation for all industry clusters as outlined in the association’s Articles of Incorporation and By-laws.

A Night to Remember through Denim Party

Another year to celebrate, another lively night. For this year, the socials night was set to a “Denim Party” theme. Delegates and guests gathered to relax, connect and celebrate shared success of this year’s event. The evening was filled with laughter as they enjoy the disco vibes of the live band performances by the invited local artists. They also enjoyed the generous selection of food and drinks sponsored by the event’s socials night sponsors.

More than just another festive night to drink, was also an opportunity for the delegates and guests to unwind, bond, create and strengthen connections that extend beyond their professional engagements.

Moving Forward

This 45^th National Annual Convention and General Assembly is another milestone for the association, another count of success and achievement. An event with combination of knowledge-sharing, recognition of excellence, transition of leadership and community celebration. This year’s event reinforced the theme to move beyond compliance, encourage members and other stakeholders to take proactive roles in sustainability and balance of nature.

The association will continue its mission to advocate environmental sustainability, showcase innovations and stewardship for years to come.