Ilocos norte: Students and non-teaching personnel from various schools in Ilocos Norte joined the global Earth Day celebration on Wednesday, organizing a series of activities to promote environmental awareness and sustainability.

According to Philippines News Agency, at Salanap Elementary School in Pinili town, school principal Aileen Rambaud encouraged the learners to sustain the school's 'green pride.' Rambaud mentioned that every month, the school community comes together to maintain cleanliness, safety, and beauty in their surroundings. The school has implemented a tree-growing and gardening program within the school compound and established a vermicomposting facility to support their plant cultivation, which mainly focuses on fruits and vegetables.

The school has also been successful in producing vermicast, an organic fertilizer, which not only supports their growing school garden but is also sold to outsiders to promote healthy soil practices. Other schools across the province participated in Earth Day by organizing activities such as clean-up drives and waste management promotion throughout the day.

Organizers highlighted that school non-teaching personnel were mobilized to participate in the celebration, aligning with the Department of Education's key initiatives, including community immersion and environmental engagement. Through these efforts, public schools in Ilocos Norte reaffirm their commitment to environmental stewardship, inspiring students to become responsible citizens and proactive advocates for a healthy planet.