Liceo de Cagayan University

Zero Waste Kitchen: Promoting Sustainable Culinary Practices

In line with its commitment to community service and sustainable practices, the Junior Tourism and Hospitality Management Association of the Philippines conducted the “Zero Waste Kitchen: Eco-Friendly Kitchen Practices” program at SAC 5th Floor, Dining Area. The initiative brought together 30 members of the Safer River Mother’s Club for an interactive session on sustainable cooking and kitchen management.

The program featured a Pineapple Jam Demonstration, led by fourth-year Hospitality Management students, showcasing eco-friendly cooking methods. Speakers also shared practical strategies for reducing food waste, minimizing single-use plastics, adopting sustainable kitchen practices, and proper food storage. Through hands-on demonstrations and discussions, participants gained actionable knowledge to implement in their daily lives.

“By teaching sustainable kitchen practices, we not only reduce waste but also empower our community to make environmentally responsible choices,” said a student facilitator.

This outreach initiative reflects the University’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, encouraging sustainable lifestyles and resource management. It also supports SDG 4: Quality Education, through experiential learning for students, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering collaboration with local community groups.

Promoting Environmental Stewardship through Education

The Safer River, Life Saver Foundation Inc. conducted a Seminar on Community-Based Solid Waste Management for the Safer River Club (SRC) of Barangay Consolacion at the Old Boardroom, Liceo de Cagayan University. The seminar aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge, skills, and abilities in effective solid waste management and environmental care.

Through presentations and discussions, participants were introduced to innovative approaches and practical strategies for planning, executing, and monitoring waste management initiatives in their community. The program emphasized sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, equipping community members with tools to actively protect and improve their local environment.

“By sharing knowledge and practical strategies on waste management, we hope to empower our community to adopt sustainable practices that benefit both people and the environment,” said a program facilitator.

This initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by promoting responsible waste management, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by encouraging cleaner and safer local environments. It also exemplifies SDG 4: Quality Education, through targeted community learning and skills development.

McLuhan Forum Series on Responsible Media

Liceo de Cagayan University, through its Office of Internationalization, in collaboration with the Department of Languages and Communication of the College of Arts and Sciences, hosted the McLuhan Forum Series on Responsible Media on January 26, 2023, at AVR 3, Main Campus. This academic event was made possible through the Government of Canada, represented by its Embassy in Manila, as part of its initiative to advance responsible journalism and democratic discourse.

With the theme “Democracy at Stake: How Media Battles the Disinformation Phenomenon,” the forum featured Mr. Christian Esguerra, a McLuhan Fellow and multi-awarded multimedia journalist known for his strong advocacy against disinformation. Mr. Esguerra, host of the political talk show Facts First and journalism educator at the University of Santo Tomas, shared valuable insights on how misinformation threatens democratic processes and how responsible media practice serves as a pillar of truth and accountability in society.

The forum gathered media professionals, university educators, and students from various institutions. The discussion was enriched by the reflections of two reactors—Dr. Rhyndl Nephl-z Luczon and Dr. Ronnie Waniwan, both respected media practitioners and faculty members. Their exchange underscored the importance of ethical journalism and critical media engagement in protecting democracy.

Distinguished guests graced the event, including Mr. Carlo Figuroa, Public Affairs Attaché of the Embassy of Canada, who delivered the opening message; Dr. Zenaida G. Gersana, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who gave the welcome remarks; Dr. Teresita T. Tumapon, Consultant for Internationalization; Dr. Rosella O. Ortiz, CAS Dean, who delivered the closing remarks; Dr. Quivido Oregines, Director of Internationalization and event chairperson; and Dr. Salvador C. dela Peña III, Chair of the Department of Languages and Communication.

Through this collaboration, Liceo U reinforced its commitment to fostering media literacy, civic responsibility, and academic engagement. The McLuhan Forum Series—named after Marshall McLuhan, the visionary Canadian media theorist who coined the term “global village”—recognizes excellence in journalism and supports the essential role of media in upholding democracy, truth, and freedom of expression. “In an age of disinformation, responsible journalism is not just a profession — it is a public service that safeguards democracy.” — Christian Esguerra, McLuhan Fellow and Journalist

This initiative contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, particularly in promoting access to information, accountability, and inclusive public discourse. It also aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, by empowering learners and professionals to think critically and ethically in the digital information age.