Written by Chire Pastorfide, Nina Yzabel Salas, and Alexandra Tolyaden
BAGUIO CITY – The University of Baguio, through the Linkages Office and Research Innovation Extension and Community Outreach (RIECO), successfully conducted the “GAIL for the Goals: Strengthening Multi-Sector Alliances for Sustainable Impact,” a conference anchored on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The activity was attended by students from the School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS), other students, university officials, government agencies, private institutions, and development partners in a collaborative effort to strengthen awareness and commitment toward sustainable development through multi-sector partnerships.
Opening the conference were a number of informative speeches, including the keynote speech by Arch. Donna Rillera Tabangin on the crucial link between urban planning and sustainability in local communities. This was followed by the first speaker, where Ms. Stephanie V. Orlino presented the significance of multi-sectoral partnerships towards meeting SDG 17. The day proceeded with the examination of the impact of infrastructure for healthcare with Ms. Zarlyn R. Banaña in relation to SDG 3. Finally, before lunch, attention was paid to the issue of inclusive leadership and its importance in ensuring gender equality with Dr. Jude Tayaben.
During the afternoon sessions, the focus was changed to resilience from both an environmental and institutional angle, as introduced by Ms. Valeree Nolasco, who shared her global knowledge about climate change action for SDG 13. This was then followed by PLTCOL Judy Jasmin O. Palicos, as she was able to relate law enforcement and sustainable development in the sense that transparent and accountable institutions ensure the implementation of the rule of law for SDG 16. Moreover, the last speaker of the afternoon session, Ms Rachele Anne Montoya, addressed SDG 11 by sharing practical strategies for inclusive urban planning and resilient infrastructure in local settings.
The “GAIL for the Goals” conference highlights and deepens the commitment of students, partners, and leaders to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It emphasizes how strategic planning, healthcare infrastructure, gender inclusivity, climate resilience, accountable governance, and collaborative efforts can drive tangible progress toward the SDGs. The event equipped participants with diverse strategies for advancing all 17 SDGs. Through this conference, it raised awareness and ignited a shared resolve to build resilient, equitable futures—positioning the University of Baguio as a hub for sustainable innovation in the Philippines.
Anchored on the Sustainable Development Goals
Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), GAIL for the Goals strongly reflects the University of Baguio’s commitment to global and local partnerships. The conference process advanced:
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Providing multi-sector collaboration by uniting government, civil society, private groups, and the University of Baguio to work toward shared sustainability targets. - SDG 1 – No Poverty
Address how multi-sector alliances create economic opportunities, social protection, and access to basic services, inspiring students to support poverty reduction efforts. - SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being
Covers how sustainable development directly impacts public health, reinforcing student commitment to well-being for all ages. - SDG 5 – Gender Equality
Highlights the importance of women’s leadership in sustainability, encouraging students to advocate for equal opportunities and empowerment across all sectors. - SDG 13 – Climate Action
Inspires University of Baguio students to take concrete action and advocate for climate resilience within their own spheres of influence. - SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Multi-sector alliances inherently require transparent, accountable, and inclusive institutions, teaching students that sustainable impact depends on good governance and the rule of law. - SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
Multi-sector alliances formed at the event focus on local urban challenges, empowering the UBian community to help create safer, greener, and more inclusive communities.
