Beta
Rising Earthkeepers: Youthful Hopes for a Sustainable Planet
Panay Island
This year is especially poignant: 2025 marks a decade since our humble beginnings in 2016, and what started as a seed of intention has blossomed into a growing forest of eco-consciousness, community, and courage.
As one of the co-founders and a lifelong wanderer of both sea and story, I find myself, every year, deepening into awe. Sixty young campers—each one a spark of hope—came together this year for what was more than a camp: it was a convergence of hearts stirred by the earth. From across the islands and coasts of Iloilo and Guimaras, they arrived—carrying notebooks, courage, and open palms ready to plant, touch, and create.
The camp’s purpose has always been simple yet profound: to train and empower young eco-warriors, to foster their growth not just as students of sustainability but as agents of change.
This year’s program embodied that spirit in every session. From mangrove lectures to soul-stirring “Climate Memory” activities, each moment was crafted to remind us that protecting nature begins with loving her—and love, after all, is built in moments both grand and small.
Our signature group dynamics returned in full color and laughter, pushing boundaries and deepening bonds. Campers built not only knowledge but also friendships and purpose—some from across different campuses, others across NGO and government sectors, whose enduring support has remained the backbone of this initiative.
This year, volunteers from long-time allies in environmental stewardship joined us again—NGO workers, local government partners, teachers, and community organizers. Many have watched this camp grow year after year, and their presence is a living testimony to the power of consistency in the face of a world in flux.
What makes this camp truly special is its accessibility—thanks to the unrelenting commitment of JBLFMU’s Social Responsibility arm, the camp remains free for all participants. This belief—that every student, regardless of background, deserves a chance to connect with nature and rise as a steward—has sustained us for ten years. And now, as we look ahead to the next ten, it will guide us even further.
Ten years ago, we were just dreamers. Today, we are a community. And as I write this—sand still in my hair, salt still on my skin—I know that roadless paths still await us, and the Earth still sings to those who choose to listen.
To the 60 brave campers: you are the tide. And to the Earth: we are yours.
With love from the wilds, Riza Ornos / Queen Mermaid, and Co-founder of EarthingPH, Eco-Adventure Camp 2025
Photos from the JBL Media Team
Riza Ornos
This year is especially poignant: 2025 marks a decade since our humble beginnings in 2016, and what started as a seed of intention has blossomed into a growing forest of eco-consciousness, community, and courage.
As one of the co-founders and a lifelong wanderer of both sea and story, I find myself, every year, deepening into awe. Sixty young campers—each one a spark of hope—came together this year for what was more than a camp: it was a convergence of hearts stirred by the earth. From across the islands and coasts of Iloilo and Guimaras, they arrived—carrying notebooks, courage, and open palms ready to plant, touch, and create.
The camp’s purpose has always been simple yet profound: to train and empower young eco-warriors, to foster their growth not just as students of sustainability but as agents of change.
This year’s program embodied that spirit in every session. From mangrove lectures to soul-stirring “Climate Memory” activities, each moment was crafted to remind us that protecting nature begins with loving her—and love, after all, is built in moments both grand and small.
Our signature group dynamics returned in full color and laughter, pushing boundaries and deepening bonds. Campers built not only knowledge but also friendships and purpose—some from across different campuses, others across NGO and government sectors, whose enduring support has remained the backbone of this initiative.
This year, volunteers from long-time allies in environmental stewardship joined us again—NGO workers, local government partners, teachers, and community organizers. Many have watched this camp grow year after year, and their presence is a living testimony to the power of consistency in the face of a world in flux.
What makes this camp truly special is its accessibility—thanks to the unrelenting commitment of JBLFMU’s Social Responsibility arm, the camp remains free for all participants. This belief—that every student, regardless of background, deserves a chance to connect with nature and rise as a steward—has sustained us for ten years. And now, as we look ahead to the next ten, it will guide us even further.
Ten years ago, we were just dreamers. Today, we are a community. And as I write this—sand still in my hair, salt still on my skin—I know that roadless paths still await us, and the Earth still sings to those who choose to listen.
To the 60 brave campers: you are the tide. And to the Earth: we are yours.
With love from the wilds, Riza Ornos / Queen Mermaid, and Co-founder of EarthingPH, Eco-Adventure Camp 2025
Photos from the JBL Media Team
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