Bea Allyson Alimangohan

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) Director for Public Engagement Jerome Barradas described the youth as ‘the future’ by playing an active role in protecting the environment and conserving biodiversity.

Photo Courtesy of Philippine Information Agency.

“We will be involving the youth in crafting such policies, after all, they are the future. So it’s important for them to be part of the decision-making process in the policy-making process when it comes to biodiversity conservation and sustainable use,” Barradas said.

On May 25, he emphasized the importance of youth participation in shaping environmental policies, citing the ASEAN Youth Biodiversity Programme as a key initiative to address regional challenges.

The program aims to boost the knowledge and skills of the youth, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to biodiversity decision-making, support youth-led conservation efforts, and foster community-building.

According to ACB, more than 33 percent of the ASEAN population is aged 15 to 35, a demographic with the potential to make a significant impact on environmental advocacy.

“It doesn’t need to be big. It can be a small part, but that small part is needed to make things happen for the future we want to see…You can start by knowing what to do and knowing why we want to do it. Appreciation is key, we cannot love what we cannot do,” the director emphasized. 

He encouraged the youth to participate in activities designed for them as the World Expo 2025 in Osaka continues.

The World Expo 2025, which runs from April 13 to October 13, carries the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”

ACB will represent the ASEAN region at the event, showcasing its rich biodiversity, including that of the Philippines.

The expo aims to promote dialogue on building smart, sustainable communities, with an estimated 28 million visitors expected, including students from various Japanese universities.