Tagum City Launches Duyog Awards to Honor Grassroots Environmental Heroes

A new awards program will soon recognise local environmental advocates in Tagum City. Called the Duyog Awards, the initiative launches on March 30, 2026, to highlight grassroots efforts in sustainability and conservation. Organisers hope to shine a light on community projects that often go unnoticed but play a vital role in protecting the environment. The awards are a joint effort by Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability Inc. (IDIS) and the Tagum City government. The name Duyog—meaning collaboration—reflects the program's focus on collective action, honoring groups that work together to advance environmental causes.

Nominations will open to grassroots sectors, including barangay groups, people's organisations, and informal advocates. Nine awardees will be recognised at the inaugural ceremony on April 24, 2026, across categories like coastal and marine resource management, education and policy advocacy, and forest conservation. The initiative takes inspiration from existing programs such as the Lunhaw Awards and Banwa Awards. Beyond recognition, the Duyog Awards will document and share best practices from winners. This approach aims to help other communities replicate successful strategies, fostering wider environmental impact. By showcasing effective local projects, the awards also seek to attract investment and tourism to participating areas. The long-term goal is to institutionalise recognition for grassroots environmental work while strengthening partnerships between communities, local government, and other stakeholders.

The Duyog Awards will provide a platform for unsung environmental advocates in Tagum City. Winners will gain visibility for their efforts, and their strategies will be shared to inspire similar projects elsewhere. The program's launch in 2026 marks a step toward greater collaboration and support for community-driven sustainability.