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UPRI-RCW Launches AHA! May Podcast: How Climate Change Changes Food Systems

Written by Kel Almazan

“Sala sa init, sala sa lamig!” ‘AHA! May Podcast!’ is a bi-weekly podcast series related to food, nutrition, and climate change. Each episode features a guest speaker to share their thoughts on climate change and its impact on everyday concerns. The primary objective is to demystify climate change and emphasize that resilience begins on the ground, together with communities.

Climate change is a multifaceted discussion that not only affects the weather but also encompasses changes in the habits of individuals and communities. Given this, people learn to adapt and provide practical solutions to the effects of climate change. The podcast is a springboard to engage listeners and begin a conversation on Anticipatory Action.

The first week set the tone with Ms. Anna Gamboa, Assistant Professor, on the topic of how collaboration fosters innovation. Going beyond the box is required in preparing for and adapting to disasters and climate change. It was followed by Sir Dakila Cutab, owner of Maginhawa Eco-Store, on encouraging eco-conscious living through a low-impact sari-sari store. They sell varied items from partner communities and promote a twist on the ‘tingi’ culture by establishing refilling stations for liquid products.

The second week focuses on plants and how they can address key issues, including inflation, food security, and climate change. Ms. Jeny Tuazon, Agriculture-Fishery Instructor, mentions how she uses a kulambo to protect plants in their urban garden. She stresses the value of agriculture despite the depressing condition of farmers. In the same week, Ms. Susan Corpuz of the Philippine Botanical Art Society documents edible flora and advocates for alternative medicine.

The third week continues to inspire with the work of Chef Laorence Castillo, serving healthy and nutritious meals for the ‘people and the planet.’ He explains how community cooking is deeply ingrained in Philippine culture, in stark contrast with the Western values of ‘instant’ meals. In the following episode, Ms. Aileen Gerona of the University Food Service shares how to maintain cleanliness in the kitchen and how to instill the practice of ‘Clean As You Go’ as an intervention.

AHA! May Podcast! is a project under AHA! Handaan Na! The culminating event is a performance showcase and learning event scheduled on June 24-25, 2025 at the Parola Gallery, UP College of Fine Arts.

Interested participants for the June 24-25 event may register here: bit.ly/aha-registration.