ALANGALANG, LEYTE — A proud moment for the Philippines as a local arts organization takes the global stage. Alangalang Lingganay Performing Arts (ALPA) has been named among the 50 global winners of the 2026 Youth4Climate Call for Solutions, securing nearly ₱2 million in project funding.
From Cultural Dancers to Climate Innovators
ALPA recently secured the $30,000 grant after being honored at a prestigious ceremony in Rome, Italy. The initiative, co-led by the United Nations Development Programme and the Government of Italy, selected the group from over 2,200 global applications for their exceptional environmental project.
For 15 years, ALPA has focused on preserving cultural heritage through dance and music. Originally formed by young people passionate about local traditions, the organization has evolved into a recognized champion for climate innovation and community empowerment in Leyte.
Co-Founder Jan Kairel Guillermo noted that people often underestimate artists, viewing them as detached from real-world problems. However, the group wants to prove that creatives have a profound responsibility to respond to pressing community challenges, including the global climate crisis.
Transforming Textile Waste into Construction
The winning project, "Waste to Wear, Waste to Build," offers a bold solution to textile pollution. It aims to transform discarded fabrics into sustainable construction materials like tiles and wall cladding, directly addressing environmental degradation while generating new resources.
Beyond the environmental impact, the initiative is designed to create green skills development opportunities. It will stimulate local livelihoods and encourage youth participation in the circular economy, ensuring that the community directly benefits from the innovative project.
This initiative will be implemented in Alangalang, supporting ALPA's vision to build a community-based Sustainability and Cultural Hub. This space will empower young locals to develop and test practical solutions to various environmental challenges in their area.
Cultural Preservation Meets Climate Action
Fellow Co-Founder Kristel Lind Cabalona stressed the deep connection between cultural preservation and environmental protection. She explained that Filipino dances, music, and festivals are rooted in nature, meaning that protecting the environment is essential to keeping these traditions alive.
This remarkable international achievement was made possible through the collaboration of BAYO Foundation and Race to Net Zero Philippines. Their expertise in sustainable fashion, circular innovation, and climate action was crucial in elevating the proposal to the global stage.
The organization extended its gratitude to its members, families, mentors, and fellow Alangalanganons who supported them over the years. The recognition is celebrated as a shared victory for everyone who contributed to ALPA's fifteen-year journey.
A Proud Moment for the Philippines
Chosen from thousands of applicants worldwide, ALPA proudly represented the Philippines alongside young innovators from across the globe. The delegation traveled to Italy to formally receive the award and highlight the community where their impactful journey began.
Fifteen years after starting as a simple group of dancers, ALPA has achieved something truly extraordinary for their hometown. Their story serves as a powerful reminder that grassroots creativity can solve complex global problems and inspire lasting change.
