The College of Development Communication (CDC) showcased feature stories on just energy transition that its students and staff produced with community stakeholders in the forum “Lusong Laguna” held on 11 December 2024 at the UPLB REDREC Auditorium.

Led by the non-government organization (NGO) Reboot Philippines, the forum was part of the multisectoral campaign Kasama Ka! Laguna, which is convened by Mr. Allein Espinoza and aims to promote sustainable and inclusive development in the province. Along with CDC, through the Department of Science Communication (DSC), other partner organizations included the UPLB Development Communicators’ Society, the Legal Rights and Natural Resources Center, Oxfam Pilipinas, and Club for UNESCO – UP Los Baños. The forum brought together over 50 community stakeholders.

It primarily showcased the documentary series Pagpalaot: Tides of Change in Laguna de Bay, produced by the DEVC 126 (Participatory Development Journalism) Section G-2L of the 1st Semester of AY 2023-2024, in collaboration with CDC staff under the supervision of Dr. Winifredo B. Dagli. Funded by Reboot Philippines, the documentary highlighted the stories of the fisherfolk of Laguna de Bay and their call for a more inclusive approach to the lake’s development, particularly concerning initiatives like floating solar panels and the lakeshore road network. 

Representatives from the DEVC 126 class, Maria Elaine Dino and Sharmaine De La Cruz, presented the documentary alongside Barangay Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (BFARMC) representative, Vernan Magundayao. 

The forum also presented an investigative data story project titled “Hamon sa Pag-Ahon.” Funded by FairFinance Philippines, the project was led by KK! Laguna members and CDC students Sophia Bonifacio and Jan Carlo Basilo, along with Mr. Espinoza, and edited by Asst. Prof. Miguel Victor T. Durian of the Department of Development Journalism (DDJ).

Composed of an in-depth feature story and a series of short-form videos, the project highlighted the concerns of residents in Pakil regarding the potential risks posed by the Ahunan Hydropower Pumped-Storage Dam to their safety, livelihood, and culture.

The presentations were followed by a panel discussion facilitated by Dr. Dagli followed and composed of representatives from the various stakeholder groups. They included the Laguna Lakewide Integrated Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Management Councils (FARMC), Mamamayang Nagmamahal sa Pakil (MANAPAK), Oxfam Pilipinas, Legal Rights and Natural Resources Center-Kasama sa Kalikasan (LRC-KSK), and the National Anti-Poverty Commission.

The forum concluded with a commitment-setting session led by Mr. Espinoza, convenor of Kasama Ka! Laguna, encouraging all sectors to participate in fostering holistic development, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Representing the UPLB administration at the event was Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Roberto P. Cereno. (Kiannah Tenorio and Sharmaine De La Cruz; Photo by Maria Elaine Dino)