Victorious Christian Montessori College-Bacoor, Inc. Senior High School students recently embarked on an expedition to clean up Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park, a renowned nature reserve, on October 3, 2024. Formerly known as the Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area, this protected site serves as a crucial stopover and nesting place for about 47 migrating bird species along the East Asian-Australasian migratory flyway.
Filled with enthusiasm and a sense of responsibility, the students boarded four buses and departed at 8:00 A.M. for the roughly hour-long journey. Upon arrival, they marvelled at the park's tranquil beauty and the vital ecological role it plays. Each student was asked to bring essential clean-up tools, including tongs, sacks, gloves, and masks. Notably, plastic garbage bags were prohibited to minimize plastic waste, with sacks provided as a biodegradable alternative. These sacks were a thoughtful choice, breaking down without leaving harmful residues, thus aligning with the park's sustainability ethos.
The clean-up effort was meticulously organized, with waste categorized into distinct sections: styrofoam, glass, plastic, diapers, and more. This methodical approach ensured efficient waste management and highlighted the importance of sorting and recycling. The clean-up lasted about an hour, concluding just before the students' scheduled break time at 10:00 A.M. Following their environmental stewardship activities, the four groups engaged in a variety of enriching experiences, including exploring the park's diverse bamboo groves, taking leisurely nature walks, and visiting an informative museum.
The bamboo viewing was particularly noteworthy, showcasing its various species such as Bayog, Pink Bamboo, Black Bamboo, Yellow Bamboo, Giant Bamboo, Malacca Bamboo, and Moso Bamboo. These bamboo species not only enhanced the park's natural beauty but also supported the local environment by promoting diversity and sustainability. During the nature walk, students immersed themselves in the park's stunning scenery while learning fascinating facts about the area's rich natural environment. This walk offered a unique opportunity for students to connect with nature and appreciate the intricate balance of ecosystems.
The museum visit provided an educational capstone to their expedition. Inside, students explored exhibits detailing local wildlife, plant species, and the critical importance of wetlands. Displays on ecological processes, conservation efforts, and the park's history underscored the broader significance of their clean-up efforts.
The tour concluded at approximately 11:00 A.M., earlier than expected. The return trip went smoothly, ensuring the safety of the students. They were dropped off at All Home, which was also the designated meeting place.
Overall, the expedition was a profound learning experience, deepening the students' appreciation for environmental conservation and the beauty of natural habitats. The event fostered a sense of community and responsibility, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.