Youth Achiever Climate illustrations by Franchezka Cardiño, 17, Multiple Intelligence International School
Paul Daniel Serrano, 20, is a youth, climate, and energy advocate dedicated to empowering children and youth in the climate justice movement. He is currently pursuing a BA in Psychology at the University of Saint La Salle–Bacolod and is affiliated with the Negrosanon Initiative for Climate and the Environment. He now spearheads the "Children for Climate" project, which aims to establish community-based organizations for children and youth in Bacolod City for climate action and disaster resilience.
Paul’s journey began as an angry teenager frustrated by the climate crisis. Becoming part of the Bacolod community transformed his anger into tangible action, driving his passion for climate and gender justice advocacy.
Project: Children for Climate (C4C)
C4C is a children- and youth-led initiative empowering young people in grassroots communities to lead climate action and disaster resilience initiatives. It equips children with skills, resources, and confidence to lead climate action in their communities. By actively involving today’s young people in climate resilience and community preparedness, we are building a generation of leaders equipped to continue this critical work for decades to come.
Why: I’ve lived through the devastation of typhoons since I was 9 years old, including surviving supertyphoons like Yolanda in 2013. It showed me the urgent need for resilience, especially among children who are most vulnerable. This is my way of transforming my own painful experiences into a driving force to protect, empower, and safeguard my generation.
Fulfilling part: Its impact on children and communities. Knowing that today’s efforts can lead to real change and protect generations to come is incredibly rewarding for me
Vision of the Philippines in 2050: I envision a Philippines where communities are resilient, and the impacts of climate change no longer threaten our lives and futures. A nation where poverty and inequality are eradicated, and every Filipino has access to clean air, water, and safe, sustainable environments. In 2050, I hope our country will be a place where children and young people thrive in harmony with nature, no longer facing the fear of extreme weather and climate devastation.
Advice to young people who want to make a difference:
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed as we fight for a livable future, knowing the clock is ticking on the climate crisis. But remember, every effort counts—even when it feels small. Being part of this movement as a young person is itself a powerful act of resistance and change. You’re already part of the revolution by stepping up and taking action. Even if the journey is tough, remember that standing up for justice and hope creates the face of the future that we all deserve.
My pledge:
I pledge to keep empowering children and youth to become active leaders in climate action by providing tools, knowledge, and support. This way, they can mobilize locally, strengthen their communities, and push for meaningful, lasting change.
What we can do as a country:
We need to center climate justice in our policies and prioritize community-led resilience. By investing in sustainable infrastructure, providing climate education, and supporting grassroots initiatives, we can build a nation that protects the most vulnerable. Our collective efforts should aim to prevent future harm while empowering every Filipino to contribute to a just, resilient, and sustainable future.