UN Sasakawa Laureate Glenn Banaguas: The Lone Filipino Voice Championing Climate Resilience at Harvard

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




As the world convenes for the Harvard Climate Action Week 2024, a singular figure emerges from the Philippines, carrying the weight of his nation’s hopes and aspirations for a sustainable future. Science Diplomat Glenn Banaguas, the distinguished UN Sasakawa Laureate and multi-awarded scientist, is set to grace this global stage as the only Filipino speaker, a testament to his unparalleled dedication to environmental advocacy.

His engagement at this prestigious event is an emblem of hope and inspiration for the Philippines. His presence echoes the united resolve of his homeland, which stands at the vanguard of climate advocacy. Through the pioneering “Climate Smart Philippines: Science for Service” program, he has ushered in a new era of disaster risk management and resilience enhancement across Southeast Asia. As the cornerstone initiative of the Environmental and Climate Change Research Institute, which he established, this influential platform commits to mitigating disaster risks and averting potential harm through thorough scientific analysis, skill-building, project oversight, and collaborative efforts with various partners. It represents a thoughtful and compassionate method to combat the climate emergency, ensuring that the devised solutions are grounded in scientific evidence while being sensitive to gender issues and cultural nuances.

Scheduled for June 2024, the Harvard Climate Action Week, hosted by the Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability, is a crucible for transformative ideas and strategies to combat the climate crisis. The week-long summit promises to be a melting pot of innovation, where Banaguas’ insights will undoubtedly spark meaningful conversations and drive impactful change.

Banaguas’ unique perspective as the sole Filipino invitee underscores the critical role of inclusive representation in the climate dialogue. His presence is a powerful reminder that the path to global sustainability is paved with the diverse experiences and wisdom of all nations, especially those most affected by climate change.

As the world-renowned science diplomat takes the podium, his message is clear: peace, unity, resilience, innovation, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of sustainability are the cornerstones of our global response to the climate emergency. His address is expected to resonate with a sense of urgency, calling upon the world to rally together in the face of this unprecedented challenge.

In essence, the esteemed scientist’s role at the Harvard Climate Action Week transcends that of a mere presenter; he stands as a beacon of progress and a driving force for global change. His address marks a pivotal moment for his nation and serves as a rallying cry for the international community. His words will resonate with the aspirations of countless individuals affected by climate change, amplifying the urgency of his message. As we anticipate his speech, we are reminded of the profound significance of every voice in the crusade for a sustainable and resilient tomorrow.

Arcos takes oath as a Member of the Social Security Commission

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Social Security System (SSS) President and Chief Executive Officer Rolando Ledesma Macasaet today announced that labor leader Eva B. Arcos will be joining the Social Security Commission (SSC), the highest policy-making body of SSS, as one of its members for the fourth time.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. appointed Arcos as a full-fledged Member of the SSC on April 18, 2024. She took her oath of office before Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma, who also sits as an Ex-Officio Member of the SSC, on April 24, 2024.

Macasaet said that Arcos was previously appointed as an Acting Member of the SSC on March 23, 2023 and served in that capacity until her appointment as a full-fledged Member last month. She also served in the SSC in 2015 and 2016 as one of the three Workers’ Group Representatives.

Arcos is a member of several SSC committees, such as the Information Technology and Collection Committee, Risk Management and Investments Committee, Audit Committee, and Governance Committee. “Commissioner Arcos will continue to be critical in shaping the policies that govern the SSS," Macasaet said.

She completed her bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from the University of the Philippines Diliman, and has masteral studies in Labor Policy and Administration, and Psychology from the same university.

She obtained diplomas/certificates in the areas of labor, psychology, theology, and spirituality from various institutions such as Notre Dame University, Indiana, USA; Mexican American Cultural Center, San Antonio, Texas, USA; Turin International Training Centre, Italy; the Asian Productivity Organization and Iranian Productivity Organization, Tehran, Iran; Centro de Enseñanza para Extranjeros, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico; and International Institute – Histadrut, Israel.

Currently, she is also a member of the Global and Asia-Pacific IndustriALL Executive Committee and Women’s Committee.

Food Preservation Techniques – A Discovery Moment at Sheraton Manila Bay

Wazzup Pilipinas!?


Step into Sheraton Manila Bay and be transported back in time to rediscover our local food preservation techniques. Three hundred years ago, Filipino cuisine looked quite different from what we enjoy today. Dishes like adobo existed back then but were known by a different name—adobado, meaning to marinate. Our food reflects how our culture has evolved over time. This coming May 23, Sheraton Manila Bay sets the scene and takes us hundreds of years back to an immersive experience of the rich tapestry of Filipino culinary heritage and traditional preservation methods, specifically discovering dishes from Southern Tagalog, Pampanga, Zamboanga, and Cordillera.

We will explore traditional alcoholic Filipino drinks such as Lambanog (local distilled palm liquor) and Basi (native Ilocano fermented liquor). In partnership with Limtuaco Distillery, renowned for its exquisite spirits, Sheraton Manila Bay will first take guests on a journey through artisanal cocktails as Distillery Limtuaco gives a brief explanation of what these two unique ingredients are and what cocktails can be made with these liquors as their base.

At the heart of this event lies a celebration of heirloom food preservation techniques from diverse regions, each contributing unique dishes that encapsulate centuries of culinary tradition. Imagine savoring the delicate flavors of "Pinais na Sugpo," featuring fresh prawns and young coconut enveloped in pechay and banana leaves, slowly cooked in coconut water and creamy coconut cream. This dish, hailing from Southern Tagalog, embodies the art of wrapping ingredients in natural materials to seal in flavors.

From the coastal kitchens of Zamboanga emerges "Bacalao in Saffron Ravioli," showcasing dried salted cod, olive oil, heirloom tomatoes, and locally sourced Malagos Ricotta cheese, all encased in homemade pasta. It's a fusion of Spanish and Filipino influences, reflecting the region's rich culinary history. Venturing into the highlands of Cordillera, guests will be treated to a unique twist on a Filipino classic with "Sinigang Pork Etag Burrito," where smoky pork belly meets Ifugao mountain rice, wrapped in warm flatbread—a comforting blend of textures and flavors.

Pampanga's culinary legacy shines through "Pindang Damulag," a dish featuring tender beef preserved in a flavorful marinade, served with moringa nachos and Davao's chevre-style cheese, creating a symphony of tastes that pay homage to local ingredients. And what Filipino culinary experience would be complete without a sweet finale? Indulge in "Halo-Halo de lloco," a delightful concoction of carabao milk, Bacnotan honey, cassava, saba banana, ube kamoteng kahoy, and young coconut—a true celebration of tropical flavors. The evening will be accompanied by an array of handcrafted cocktails, featuring indigenous spirits like Lambanog and Basi, creatively blended with local fruits and herbs. From the refreshing "Basi Spritz" to the intriguing "Nightcap" combining Basi, Liqueur de Cacao, and espresso, each cocktail is a tribute to Filipino craftsmanship.

Alongside Limtuaco Distillery, guests will also have the chance to sample and purchase products from La Comida Goa, our local partner. They have prepared products such as canned Laing, Bicol Express, and Sinantolan. Inspired by the love and cravings for local food, coupled with the desire to support and uplift the lives of people in Camarines Sur, La Comida Goa’s mission is to promote Bicolano culture through food that reminds them of home.

Join us this 23rd of May at Sheraton Manila Bay and discover Food Preservation Techniques.
Sheraton Manila Bay is a renowned hotel located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, and state-of-the art facilities. With its commitment to providing exceptional service and creating unforgettable moments, Sheraton Manila Bay is the perfect destination for both leisure and business travelers. To reserve or book your room accommodations go to www.sheratonmanilabay.com. Sheraton Manila Bay is conveniently located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. Like us on Facebook and Instagram @sheratonmanilabay and follow us on Twitter at @sheratonmnlbay.