by Dr. Jeramie Molino, Head of the Religion Department
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the CICM Mission, and the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), the Traditional Knowledge Conference on Oral Histories and Lived Religious Traditions of Select Indigenous Communities in Response to Climate Change was held on July 13, 2023, at Saint Louis University’s Fr. Francis Gevers Hall in Baguio City. The conference delved into select indigenous communities’ oral histories and lived religious traditions, highlighting their unique perspectives and practices in response to climate change.
A Glimpse into the Conference
During the opening ceremonies, the attendees listened to the welcome remarks delivered by Dr. Joselito Gutierrez on behalf of the President Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, in which he expressed how the conference aligns with the CICM Mission’s dedication to proclaiming the Gospel and addressing the needs of the poor. Dr. Gutierrez emphasized SLU’s commitment to excellence across various areas, reflecting its dedication to maintaining its reputation for excellence in the region. This commitment to quality education aligns with CEAP’s goal of strengthening solidarity among member schools through Catholic education and championing relevant, inclusive, and transformative Catholic education.
Moreover, as emphasized in the President’s message, SLU’s concern for environmental issues connects with the CICM Mission’s commitment to environmental stewardship and care of creation, more specifically the CICM advocacy of Environmental Protection and Management. SLU integrates environmental sustainability into its core values and practices, promoting SDG 13 Climate Action. Efforts to promote environmental awareness, sustainable practices, and the preservation of indigenous knowledge related to climate change were underscored during the opening ceremonies, which is aligned with CICM’s advocacy on Indigenous Peoples Apostolates.
Dr. Richel Lamadrid, the Director of the Saint Louis University Research and Innovation Center, and Mr. Clarence Darro del Castillo, President of the Lumina Foundation, also shared their insights during the opening ceremonies. Dr. Lamadrid emphasized the unique opportunity the event provided to explore the traditional knowledge of indigenous communities and its relevance in addressing climate change, showcasing SLU’s commitment to research and innovation. This connection between traditional knowledge and modern research aligns with the CICM Mission’s commitment to integrating the Gospel with contemporary realities and addressing the world’s needs. Furthermore, it contributes to SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaboration between academic institutions and indigenous communities.
The conference, with its enlightening parallel sessions and engaging open forums, served as a platform for knowledge sharing and active participation, addressing the pressing concerns of climate change and connecting with CEAP JEEPGY’s value of Ecological Integrity and the mission to be catalysts of change through dialogue, collaboration, and education in different dimensions of human life, most especially with the pressing concerns on the environment.
Preserving Knowledge, Nurturing Sustainability
The Traditional Knowledge Conference on Oral Histories and Lived Religious Traditions in Response to Climate Change served as a vital platform for promoting the preservation and utilization of traditional knowledge in the face of environmental challenges. By recognizing the wisdom of indigenous communities and integrating it with modern research and practices, a sustainable path for the future could be forged, aligning with the CICM Mission’s dedication to the care of creation and the CEAP’s vision of a world transformed through education. By addressing climate change and protecting the environment, the conference contributes to SDG 13 (Climate Action) and fosters a sustainable future for present and future generations.
