Program Binhi is a dynamic initiative rooted in nurturing and cultivating the seeds of change within vulnerable communities. Embracing the essence of its name, which means “seed” in Filipino, Binhi seeks to plant the seeds of hope, resilience, and sustainability in the hearts of individuals and communities.

With a focus on environmental protection, climate change solutions, biodiversity promotion, and disaster prevention, education, rescue, and rehabilitation, Binhi aims to foster a deep ecological awareness and a sense of stewardship towards the planet. By empowering vulnerable communities with knowledge, skills, and resources, Binhi strives to create a ripple effect of positive change, spreading from grassroots initiatives to global impact.

Furthermore, Binhi recognizes the importance of storytelling in shaping the Filipino narrative – its struggles and triumphs, its colorful past and dreams for the future, and its rich, diverse, and global identity. Through storytelling, Binhi aims to celebrate the resilience and cultural heritage of Filipino communities while inspiring collective action towards a sustainable and inclusive future.

As the seeds of Binhi take root and flourish, they symbolize the potential for growth, transformation, and regeneration within communities and beyond. Through Binhi, we sow the seeds of hope and possibility, nurturing a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.

About the Program’s Partner

1. World Wide Fund for Nature – Philippines

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of the Philippines’ natural resources and biodiversity. It is part of the global WWF network, which operates in over 100 countries and is one of the world’s largest and most respected conservation organizations.

Established in 1997, WWF Philippines works to address environmental challenges facing the country, including deforestation, habitat loss, overfishing, climate change, and pollution. The organization implements a wide range of conservation programs and initiatives aimed at protecting key ecosystems, endangered species, and promoting sustainable development practices.

WWF Philippines collaborates with government agencies, local communities, businesses, and other stakeholders to achieve its conservation goals. Through advocacy, research, capacity-building, and on-the-ground projects, the organization seeks to create positive change and secure a more sustainable future for both people and nature in the Philippines.

Key areas of focus for WWF Philippines include marine conservation, forest conservation, sustainable fisheries management, climate change adaptation, renewable energy promotion, and environmental education and awareness-raising.

With a strong commitment to science-based conservation and community engagement, WWF Philippines plays a vital role in safeguarding the country’s natural heritage and promoting the well-being of present and future generations.

2. Far Eastern University Community Extension Services (FEU CES)

Far Eastern University Community Extension Services (FEU CES) is an integral component of Far Eastern University’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. Founded on the principles of service and solidarity, FEU CES seeks to bridge the gap between the university and the broader community by implementing programs and initiatives that address societal needs and promote sustainable development.

FEU CES operates under the guiding philosophy of “In the Service of the Filipino,” reflecting its dedication to uplifting the lives of marginalized sectors and fostering inclusive growth. Through various outreach activities, volunteer programs, and partnerships with local communities and organizations, FEU CES strives to empower individuals, build capacities, and create positive social change.

The core objectives of FEU CES include promoting civic engagement, fostering a culture of volunteerism among students and faculty, and facilitating meaningful collaborations with external stakeholders. By leveraging the expertise and resources of the university, FEU CES aims to contribute to the holistic development of communities, particularly in areas such as education, health, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic empowerment.

3. Far Eastern University Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (FEU ITHM)

FEU ITHM is a leading academic institution dedicated to the education and training of future professionals in the fields of tourism, hospitality, and related industries. Established with a vision to be a center of excellence in tourism and hospitality education, the institute offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for success in the dynamic and competitive global tourism and hospitality sector.

FEU ITHM takes pride in its commitment to academic excellence, industry relevance, and holistic development. The institute’s faculty members are seasoned professionals and experts in their respective fields, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction and mentorship. Moreover, FEU ITHM maintains strong partnerships with industry stakeholders, including hotels, resorts, travel agencies, and tourism organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, industry exposure, and hands-on experience.

At FEU ITHM, students benefit from a well-rounded curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical training, experiential learning, and industry immersion. The institute offers undergraduate and graduate programs in tourism management, hotel and restaurant management, event management, and related disciplines, empowering students to pursue diverse career paths and make meaningful contributions to the tourism and hospitality industry.

In addition to academic programs, FEU ITHM is actively involved in research, outreach, and community engagement initiatives that promote sustainable tourism development, cultural preservation, and socio-economic empowerment. Through these endeavors, the institute seeks to instill in its students a sense of social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and ethical leadership, thereby preparing them to be conscientious professionals and global citizens in the field of tourism and hospitality.

4. Local Government of Lemery, Batangas

The Local Government of Lemery is the governing body responsible for the administration and management of the municipality of Lemery in the Province of Batangas, Philippines. As a local government unit (LGU), its primary objective is to promote the welfare and development of the community by providing essential public services, implementing programs and projects, and upholding good governance principles.

They operate under the guidance of elected officials, including the mayor, vice mayor, and municipal councilors, who are tasked with enacting policies, ordinances, and regulations that address the needs and priorities of the municipality. Additionally, the LGU collaborates with various government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private sector partners, and community stakeholders to promote inclusive growth, sustainable development, and social progress.

Projects under Program BINHI

I. Program Binhi: Mangrove Tree Planting and Heritage Tour

In collaboration with the FEU Community Extension Services and FEU Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management, FEU High School stakeholders (Students, Student leaders, Faculty, Staff, Administrators, and Parents) will undergo a holistic experience that combines cultural immersion, environmental education, and hands-on conservation activities. We believe that by integrating these elements, we can create a meaningful and impactful learning opportunity for all participants involved and at the same time, it will help us to fulfill our School Social Responsibility Initiatives for the rehabilitation of the Mangrove Site in Sitio Maibon and in the advocacies of the university to save the environment and to help the local community aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG3 – Good Health and Well-being, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 14 – Life below Water, SDG 15 – Life on Land).

The objectives of the tour are as follows:

• Cultural Immersion: We intend to immerse our stakeholders in the rich cultural heritage of Batangas, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for local traditions, history, and customs.
• Ecological Education: Our tour will focus on educating stakeholders about the ecological importance of mangroves and their critical role in coastal ecosystems. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the significance of mangrove forests in mitigating climate change, protecting coastal areas from erosion, and supporting biodiversity.
• Hands-on Conservation Activities: A key highlight of the tour will be hands-on participation in mangrove planting activities. By actively engaging in conservation efforts, participants will develop a sense of environmental responsibility and stewardship. Through practical involvement in planting, we seek to empower individuals to take meaningful action towards safeguarding our natural resources and promoting sustainable practices.

II. Usapang Kalikasan

In collaboration with World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF – Ph), this program aims to brainstorm and develop learning modules that will enhance the environmental awareness and stewardship skills of all members of the FEU High School community. These modules will be codesigned by FEU High School and WWF – Ph to integrate seamlessly into the academic curriculum or homeroom modules of FEU High School, ensuring that environmental education becomes an integral part of the learning experience for students and a shared commitment among all stakeholders. By engaging in dialogue and collaboration, this initiative seeks to empower the FEU

High School community to become active agents of positive change for the environment, fostering a culture of sustainability and responsibility towards nature. Through education and collective action, the partnership between FEU High School and WWF – PH endeavors to inspire future generations to become informed and passionate advocates for environmental conservation and protection.

II. Binhi Modules: Simple Ways to be an Environmental Catalyst of Change