Presenting the ECO-llect Project of WeGeneration Initiative Climate Leaders!

In the bustling neighborhood of Payatas, Quezon City, where daily challenges often

weigh heavily on families, a group of ten determined teenagers is proving that change

can start right at home — or, more accurately, from kitchen scraps.

Ayessa Khiz G. Balais, Christopher Sinagpolo, Christine Joy Morillo, Mark Angelo

Sevilla, Lykarose Bohol, Jocelyn Bagang, Aicie Rosete, Princess Rañola, Harvey Junto,

and Jacob KB Robles are young changemakers on a mission. Armed with buckets,

gloves, and an unstoppable spirit, they have been collecting food waste and fruit and

vegetable peelings from their neighbors and the nearby market. But instead of tossing

these into overflowing dumps, they are transforming them into something valuable:

fertilizer, using the eco-friendly Bokashi method — a process that ferments organic

waste, turning it into nutrient-rich compost.

Their inspiring initiative earned them a ₱25,000 prize from the WeGeneration

Initiative, a newly-formed NGO dedicated to promoting climate and social action

through education and advocacy. Most of the teens are scholars of 2KK Foundation

(Tulong sa Kapwa Kapatid), and they are now being trained as climate action leaders

under WeGeneration.

“These teens are proof that young people can lead climate solutions,” said a

WeGeneration mentor. With their new role, the group is excited to share their

knowledge on climate change and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

in schools and communities.

For these Payatas teens, waste is no longer just trash — it’s hope, action, and the seed

of a greener future.

Collection Day WATCH THE KIDS IN ACTION!

“It was actually easy to collect the vegetable peels and food waste,” said Ayessa Khiz.

“The vendors in the market were already familiar with food waste collection because

other people also ask them for vegetable peels.” Christopher Sinagpolo added, “The

only time we really had a hard time was when the vendors were busy with customers,

so we had to wait. But overall, it’s been a good experience.”

“We’re learning how to turn the food waste into fertilizer by reading articles and

watching YouTube videos,” Ayessa shared. “We’re enjoying the work and are hoping for

the best.” Christopher added, “We’re happy to be part of the WeGeneration Initiative.

It’s exciting to learn about climate change and how we can help in small but meaningful

ways.”