By Kenneth Marcos 
In a lively classroom in Barangay Mapulang Lupa, Valenzuela City, young students eagerly raised their hands — not to recite in math or science, but to talk about the environment. On that day, nature became the lesson, and every child became a future guardian of the Earth.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – Metropolitan Environmental Office (MEO) North brought its “Dalaw Turo” program to Apolonia Rafael Elementary School, aiming to raise awareness among Grade 5 students about environmental protection and the importance of their role in caring for the planet.
Early Education for a Greener Tomorrow
The “Dalaw Turo” session focused on key environmental issues such as proper waste management, the effects of pollution, and the importance of following environmental laws.
Students were encouraged to share their own experiences on waste disposal at home and school. They listened attentively, asked questions, and showed a strong interest in learning how their daily habits affect the environment.
Class adviser Ms. Jesbelle Tolentino expressed her gratitude to the MEO–North team, emphasizing the importance of teaching children early about environmental responsibility.
“Planting the right mindset while they are young can help them grow into responsible citizens who care for nature,” she said.
Youth as Environmental Champions
The DENR-MEO North highlighted that the youth are among the most important partners in protecting and restoring the environment. By giving them the right knowledge and values at an early age, they can become messengers of change within their homes, schools, and communities.
Environmental laws and programs were explained in simple terms so that students could better understand how the environment is affected by human actions — and what they can do to help.
The interactive teaching method of “Dalaw Turo” made the lessons fun and relatable, using games, storytelling, and group discussions to make a lasting impact.
Valenzuela’s Push for Environmental Education
Valenzuela City continues to support programs that promote environmental education in schools, knowing that small efforts can lead to big change. With climate change, waste problems, and pollution becoming bigger challenges each year, the city believes that investing in young minds is a step toward a cleaner, safer future.
The DENR’s continued efforts through outreach programs like this reflect a nationwide call to action — that caring for the environment starts with awareness, and that awareness begins with education.
As the session ended, the students walked out not just with new knowledge, but with a stronger sense of responsibility toward the world they live in.
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