By Christine S. Luyosen and Josefa P. Dampilag/Editor: Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang

 Marking the third consecutive phase of community engagement, the Graduate School of Baguio Central University intensified its commitment to environmental stewardship at Quezon Hill Eco Zone. Following the successful completion of Phases I and II, view Phase I here and Phase II here, BCU’s Green Guardians expanded their restoration efforts in Phase III.

Within Middle Quezon Hill lies a sanctuary—the barangay’s green lungs and oxygen park. Yet even resilient landscapes succumb to the quiet erosion of neglect. Recognizing that our national treasures includes scenery which is part of the foundation of our well-being, the Graduate School of Baguio Central University continued a Community Extension Services (CES) engagement on November 15 and 20, 2025, to revive the local eco-zone.

The Master of Arts in Elementary Education (MAEE) program initiated the project on November 15, with doctoral students from PHAS (Administration and Supervision), EDMGT (Educational Management), and MAAS (Master of Arts in Administration and Supervision) continuing the work on November 20. Faculty facilitators included Dr. Josephine Aguirre, Dr. Loida Mangangey, Dr. Michael De Roxas, Dr. Altea Ramos, and Dr. Jennifer T. Longchasen.

 Barangay Middle Quezon Hill became the partner location for this third phase of BCU’s sustained intervention. Volunteers engaged in comprehensive activities: weeding, cleaning, painting, beautifying facilities, and repairing infrastructure. This initiative, part of the Graduate School Community Extension Services program, complemented coursework on UN SDGs, ASEAN integration initiatives, leaving tangible positive impact on both environment and community.

The Eco-Zone: A Jewel Needing Polish

Doctoral student Ms. Jocelyn Mero (left) spearheaded the hauling of weeds, while Mr. Roger Ngawa (right) diligently restored eroded rip-rap.

The eco-park, nestled amidst Middle Quezon Hill’s lush topography, long served nature lovers and recreational enthusiasts. Its serene trails, diverse flora and fauna, and refreshing ambiance made it a true gem. Over time, however, the park deteriorated noticeably. Overgrown weeds choked pathways, litter marred its natural beauty, and facilities faded to dull gray. The community recognized urgent need for intervention to prevent further decline and restore the park’s former glory.

Left: Ms. Christine Luyosen painted the grotto gate with precision. Right: Ms. Dina Agusdan led her team in painting the eco-zone railings.

 Collaborative Action: Together We Build Better

 The initiative began with comprehensive assessment of the eco-park’s needs, followed by a call for action. Graduate School students, professors, and dean of BCU, alongside Barangay Officials of Middle Quezon Hill, eagerly volunteered, demonstrating strong community ownership and environmental responsibility. The response was overwhelming.

Left: Mr. Oliver Waking prepared ornamental plants through mulching. Right: Ms. May Joven’s team restored pathway accessibility by removing accumulated moss.

The First Day: Weeding and Cleaning

Armed with rakes, hoes, and trash bags, participants meticulously cleared overgrown vegetation from walking trails, resting areas, and around key facilities. This work improved accessibility and controlled invasive species that threatened native flora. The sight of dedicated students and teachers collecting litter underscored the commitment to restoring the park’s pristine condition. Their efforts preserved the delicate balance of the eco-park’s ecosystem. Key contributions included: 1) Ms. Jocelyn Mero and team spearheaded hauling of weeded vegetation; 2) Mr. Roger Ngawa and team restored eroded rip-rap; 3) Mr. Oliver Waking mulched ornamental plants; and 4) Ms. May Joven’s group scraped moss from pathways to ensure safe walking surfaces.

Before restoration: The eco-zone’s deteriorated state, marked by overgrown pathways, invasive vegetation, and neglected facilities.

The Second Day: Painting and Repairs

 With the eco-zone cleared, attention turned to refreshing structures. Vibrant colors replaced faded hues, breathing new life into essential amenities. Minor repairs were carried out on railings and pathways, ensuring safety and comfort for future visitors. The collaborative spirit was evident as volunteers worked side-by-side, sharing tools and laughter. Notable efforts included: 1) Mr. Peter Canggat Jr. and his team repaired and beautified the waiting shed; 2) Ms. Rhea Stephany Faba-an and her group painted the pagoda shed; 3) Ms. Christine Luyosen painted the grotto gate for enhancement; 4) Ms. Dina Agusdan guided her team in painting railings within the eco-zone; and 5) Mr. Ryan Aladog and Mr. Jonie Leung scraped dust from cemented pathway railings in preparation for painting.

Mr. Ryan Aladog and Mr. Jonie Leung (left) prepared the pathway railings by removing accumulated debris, while Ms. Christine Luyosen (right) applied a fresh coat of paint to restore their appearance.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

 The revitalization of Quezon Hill Eco-Park contributes directly to two critical United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: 1) SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – By reclaiming neglected green spaces and transforming them into safe, inclusive, and accessible public areas, the community works to make human settlements more resilient and sustainable. Residents and visitors now have access to high-quality environmental resources that promote mental well-being and physical health. 2) SDG 15: Life on Land – The restoration protects and restores terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. This action aligns with BCU’s vision, mission, goals, and objectives, demonstrating institutional commitment to environmental stewardship.

Stakeholder Recognition

 The success of this initiative resulted from collaborative leadership: Hon. Potenciano L. Martinez, Punong Barangay of Middle Quezon Hill; Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, Dean of Graduate School & International Relations Officer, BCU; Dr. Jennifer T. Longchasen, CES Coordinator, BCU Graduate School; and Ms. Josefa P. Dampilag and Ms. Joy Belle M. Bidang, PHAS student leaders. These leaders ensured proper management, coordination, and execution of this meaningful community engagement initiative.

Faculty Perspective and Dean’s Message

 “This project truly embodies the spirit of ‘paying it forward’ and applies academic knowledge for societal betterment,” remarked Dr. Michael De Roxas, Graduate School faculty member. Dr. Jennifer Longchasen added, “We take great pride in our dean, faculty and students’ initiative and the meaningful environmental restoration they have accomplished for our community.” Graduate School Dean Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang shared the following reflection: “The Green Guardians III initiative represents environmental restoration and embodies our commitment to peace with nature, a foundational petal in our peace advocacy framework. We recognize that sustainable peace cannot exist without harmony between humanity and the natural world. This eco-zone restoration effort directly advances our support for four critical UN Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action (SDG 13), Life on Land (SDG 15), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16), and Partnership for the Goals (SDG 17).

 By engaging our graduate students and faculty in hands-on environmental stewardship, we cultivate leaders who understand that ecological preservation is inseparable from social justice, good governance, and lasting peace. This initiative strengthens Baguio City’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City, positioning our institution as a catalyst for cultural and environmental development in our region.”

Participants: The Green Guardians

 Over 90 graduate students and faculty members participated in this community engagement activity. Their collective effort and civic-mindedness exemplified BCU’s commitment to holistic education, where academic excellence couples with social responsibility. The volunteer roster included Master of Arts in Elementary Education (MAEE), PHAS, EDMGT, and MAAS students, along with dedicated faculty members.

The Graduate School of Baguio Central University – Green Guardian Leaders of Knowledge, Sustainability and Nature.

A Legacy Carved in Green

 The event concluded with a communal meal, fostering camaraderie and strengthening bonds among participants. As the sun set on the final day, the Eco-Park stood transformed. Trails once choked by weeds now offered clear paths for reflection. Structures once weathered and gray now beamed with flourishing colors—visible testimony to pride and collective success.

The pagoda (left) and water well (right) were engulfed in overgrown vegetation and moss, illustrating the extent of environmental neglect.

This undertaking marked the third phase of BCU’s sustained intervention in environmental restoration. Beyond the immediate beautification, the project planted seeds of legacy, ensuring natural beauty and sanctuary for generations yet unborn. The Eco-Park now stands as tangible evidence of what is possible when hearts and hands work in unison.

The Green Guardians III initiative demonstrates that institutional commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement creates meaningful, sustainable change. By integrating academic coursework with civic responsibility, BCU’s graduate programs produce leaders who not only think critically about pressing social and environmental challenges but also take action to address them.

The transformation of Quezon Hill Eco Zone—from neglected to revitalized—serves as an inspiration for our communities in our region and beyond. It proves that dedicated volunteers, clear vision, and collaborative spirit can restore what neglect has diminished, creating shared spaces of beauty and sanctuary for all.

Graduate cohorts from MAAS and PHAS (left to right) stand united after an intensive restoration effort, embodying the Green Guardians’ vision of leaders dedicated to sustainable environmental and social change.

Together We Build Better: Restoration, Research, and Restoration.

#Together We Build Better: For our city, for our land, and for the generations to come.

#BCUGreen Guardians

#BCUGraduateSchoolsoarshigher