Xavier University officials and program implementers, the National Board of Judges
and representatives from DENR–EMB during the National Search for Sustainable
and Eco-Friendly Schools (NSSEFS) Field Validation Visit
Xavier University is proud to be recognized as one of the Top Seven universities nationwide (College/University category) for field validation by the National Board of Judges for the National Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools (NSSEFS).
This recognition affirms the University’s ongoing commitment to creating a sustainable and eco-friendly campus, where education, research, and community engagement are deeply rooted in environmental stewardship. It also highlights the collaborative efforts of the Xavier Ateneo community in promoting responsible and innovative environmental practices.
Green spaces and sustainability initiatives at Xavier University reflect
its strong commitment to environmental stewardship
Field Validation Visit
The Field Validation Visit was held on 27 March 2026, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at AVR 1, Old Library Building, with representatives from the DENR–Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Central and Regional Offices. The visiting team included members of the National Board of Judges, namely Dr Cybelle Futalan of the Philippine Association of Tertiary Level Educational Institutions in Environmental Protection and Management and Dr Delia Babylonia of the Philippine Network of Educators in Environment. They were joined by representatives from the EMB Central Office, Ms Maria Sayra Dometita and Ms Alyssa Marie Natividad, as well as EMB Region 10 representatives Ms Alexa Marie S Revelo, Ms Sittie Carima L Rengia-Macataman, and Ms Ameloden D Radiatowa.
Members of the National Board of Judges and DENR–EMB representatives during
the validation visit at Xavier University
The program opened with welcome remarks by University President Fr Mars P Tan, SJ, followed by a presentation on Xavier University’s environmental programs by Project Director of the Campus of the Future Development Office Engr Lennie K Ong. The presentation highlighted the University’s key initiatives in waste management, pollution prevention, resource use efficiency, greening, and climate change and disaster risk reduction, including their integration into the curriculum and student engagement activities.
Fr Mars P Tan, SJ, delivers his welcome remarks during the opening program,
while Engr Lennie K Ong presents Xavier University’s environmental initiatives and sustainability programs.
Stakeholder dialogue allowed University officials and project implementers to share insights, experiences, and best practices in advancing campus sustainability.
Xavier University officials and program implementers engage in meaningful dialogue
on sustainability initiatives and best practices
The visit included a campus tour showcasing key sustainability initiatives across the University. Among the highlights were the SWEEP CDOC Waste-to-Power Facility and the Green BioH2E R&D Laboratory, both supported by DOST-PCIEERD. The validation team was also taken on a tour around the University’s mini forest, nursery, and other green spaces, as well as its solar streetlights, Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), vermi-composting facility, and cistern tank. In addition, sustainable practices such as the strict implementation of the ban on single-use plastic bottles and Styrofoam-based materials at the main gate, along with the bento box initiative at the Magis Canteen, were presented, demonstrating the University’s holistic approach to environmental stewardship.
The SWEEP CDOC Waste-to-Power Facility showcases innovative solutions for sustainable waste management,
while the Green BioH2E R&D Laboratory supports research in renewable and clean energy technologies.
The vermi-composting system takes care of responsible waste management,
while the Magis Canteen’s bento boxes promote sustainability.
The program concluded with closing remarks by Engr George M Abasolo, Vice President for Administration, and distribution of tokens and certificates.
Tokens and certificates are presented to the visiting validators
in appreciation of their time and expertise
About NSSEFS
Organized by DENR–EMB in collaboration with DepEd and CHED, the NSSEFS recognizes schools that integrate sustainability into operations, curriculum, research, extension, and administration.
During the evaluation, the University’s environmental initiatives were assessed across several key areas, including waste management, which covers segregation, recycling, composting, and waste reduction; pollution prevention and control, which highlights eco-friendly practices aimed at reducing air, water, and land pollution; resource use efficiency, focusing on the efficient use of water, energy, and materials as well as sustainable procurement; greening, which involves tree planting, campus greening, and biodiversity conservation; and climate change and disaster risk reduction, which emphasizes climate action programs and the integration of disaster risk reduction into the curriculum.
Following the visit, additional documents were submitted on April 1, 2026, showcasing solid waste management, energy efficiency, budget allocation, stakeholder participation, curriculum integration, and inclusive participation of IP and PWD communities.
The Xavier Ateneo community celebrates a shared commitment to building
a sustainable and eco-friendly future
A Shared Achievement
This milestone is not only a recognition of programs and systems but, more importantly, of people—the faculty, formators, staff, students, and partners who continue to work together to care for our common home.
Xavier University extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the preparation and success of the field validation visit. Together, we continue to move forward in building a greener, more sustainable future for the University and the communities we serve.
Photo Credit: Communications and Promotions Office