Various academic and cultural institutions are coming together for a unique gathering focused on the environment and heritage of the Visayas. InOtherWords Inc. (IOW), with support from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and in partnership with the University of San Carlos-Cebuano Studies Center (CSC), USC Department of Communications, Linguistics, and Literature (DCLL), and Mamugnaong Anak sa Dagang (MAD), will hold "Echoes of the Earth: Cultural Education for the Environment in the Visayas" from June 18 to 20, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Rigney Hall, USC-Talamban Campus.
Addressing Environmental Challenges Through Culture
Amid growing environmental challenges, the conference looks to a valuable and reliable source of wisdom: the culture, language, literature, and local knowledge of the Visayans. "Echoes of the Earth" aims to gather teachers, researchers, cultural workers, students, and community leaders to discuss how heritage can be used as a living tool for environmental education, sustainable livelihoods, and grassroots action.
According to Dr. Hope Yu, convenor of the conference, the three-day event seeks to connect cultural preservation and environmental care by valuing the ecological wisdom found in Bisaya traditions, stories, creative works, and community practices. Through research presentations, teaching demonstrations, and interdisciplinary discussions, participants will explore how cultural education can inspire a deeper, more place-based, and more responsible approach to environmental stewardship.
Keynote Speakers and Presenters
Two distinguished keynote speakers will grace the conference: Hon. Nestor D. Archival Sr., Mayor of Cebu, who will speak on June 18; and Dr. John Iremil E. Teodoro, professor at De La Salle University, who will deliver the keynote lecture on June 19.
Presenters from various institutions across the country will also participate. From outside Cebu, contributors include Rogelio F. Garcia (Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology), Ellen L. Generalao (Tagum National Trade School), Radji A. Macatabon (University of Southern Mindanao), Ruben Y. Nuevo (Calunangan National High School), Voltaire Q. Oyzon (Leyte Normal University), Jeson V. Viñas (Biliran Province State University), Salvador P. Bacio Jr. and Roberto G. Sagge Jr. (West Visayas State University), Kristoffer Von Pierre Peralta (University of the Philippines), and a group from UP High School in Iloilo.
Cebu will have strong representation, especially from the University of San Carlos, with presenters such as Mel Francis B. Amadora, Alyssa Kate A. Angalot, Bhon Glory Jayn P. Cabilete, Hazel Ann Cesa, Lamuel N. Daan, Jose Antonio C. Dasig Jr., Denis M. Judilla, Ron Jeric L. Loquias, Niño Augustine Loyola, Raphael Dean B. Polinar, Mary Louise F. Raboy, Hope Sabanpan-Yu, Joanne Marisse P. Tan, and Romeo J. Toring Jr.
They will be joined by representatives from Cebu Normal University, including Elsie T. Alvarado, Lita A. Bacalla, Marben S. Bascon, Catalina M. Canasa, Dhimna Pacifico-Geganto, Rowena C. Largo, Michael M. Manugas, and Kimberly May Oquiana. The University of the Philippines Cebu will be represented by Therese G. Cuizon, Arvin John L. Lauresta, Marjorie G. Ma-ano, and Crina Tañongon. Additional presenters will come from Talisay City College, National University Cebu, and Philippine Science High School–Central Visayas Campus.
Cultural Responsibility for the Environment
By uniting voices from academia, schools, cultural organizations, and local communities, "Echoes of the Earth" demonstrates that environmental education is not only a scientific or policy issue but also a cultural responsibility. The conference highlights the role of Bisaya languages, stories, and community practices in shaping environmental knowledge and deepening the sense of care for the land, water, memory, and place.
Attendance is free. Interested participants are encouraged to register in advance to receive a certificate of participation via the link: [https://forms.gle/ZH1ZC5XzDbwNZaBq6](https://forms.gle/ZH1ZC5XzDbwNZaBq6).
For more information, visit the official Facebook page of InOtherWords Inc. or contact the IOW Secretariat at [iow.conferences@gmail.com](mailto:iow.conferences@gmail.com) or by phone at (032) 2300-100 loc. 308. / PR
