For environmental advocate Annie Guerrero, sustainability is a way of life

Even before sustainability became a byword, environmental advocate Annie P. Guerrero has been at the forefront of numerous impactful projects that empower communities through lifelong learning, green practices, and sustainable livelihoods. Through her Culinary Education Foundation, the CSR arm of the country’s top culinary school, CCA Manila, Guerrero has championed sustainability in the kitchen.

In fact, ingrained in the DNA and culture of CEF is sustainability as it emerges as a leading force for good in the Philippines.

One of CEF’s most notable initiatives is the Culinary Training Program (CLP), which focuses on providing out-of-school youths with essential skills for the food and beverage (F&B) industry.

The CLP’s “Cooking for Life” program, a three-month course taken by out-of-school youths who seek employment in the F&B industry, is implemented in partnership with the Rotary District 3780 and RCs Sto. Domingo, Midtown QC, and New Baegjae South Korea, where 125 students graduated. This number adds to the 513 graduates of the CLP program who have received training in culinary skills, Green Chefmanship practices, and spiritual and values formation.

Notably, more than 90% of CLP graduates have found employment with various F&B groups, helping to uplift their lives and create a positive impact on their communities.

Additionally, CEF has a mobile kitchen project, where a van with a built-in kitchen is used to sell food packs and products in Marikina. These meals were prepared using organic ingredients and cooked in the Earth Kitchen with the aid of Biogas Technology, further highlighting CEF’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Beyond the culinary sector, CEF has also been actively involved in building sustainable communities in various regions.

In Pandi, Bulacan, a community was established for the resettlement of urban poor individuals. This community features a Zero Waste training center constructed from recyclable building materials, where livelihood training is provided by CEF. Additionally, the center utilizes rain harvest technology and a locally developed ozone machine to provide potable drinking water, showcasing the organization’s innovative approach to sustainability.

In the wake of the devastating typhoon Yolanda in Leyte, CEF introduced the bokashi technology in different barangays. This low-cost, mess-free, pest-free, and odor-free composting method has been proven highly successful and was recognized as the most sustainable livelihood project after the calamity.

The positive impact of such projects goes beyond mere recognition and awards, as Guerrero and her team find joy and fulfillment in knowing that they are contributing to the renewal of the country and safeguarding the earth.

Extending their influence to Mindanao, CEF collaborated with Fr. Richie Gomez of the MSCCenter for the Poor Agriculture Cooperative (MSC-CEPAGCO) to empower nine tribes of Lumad through education, financial assistance, and environmental advocacy. Low-cost and low-tech technologies were introduced to the region while providing a sustainable livelihood for the Lumad community through honey gathering.

Even in urban settings, Guerrero’s commitment to sustainability shines through. In Sitio Aguinaldo, UP Campus, she created a prototype of a sustainable urban organic garden. Launched at the height of the pandemic lockdown, this project exemplifies the power of community engagement and collaboration in promoting green practices and self-sufficiency.

“Even at the height of the pandemic lockdowns, the support for CEF’s advocacies continued. Our unquantifiable partnership, collaboration, and support from LGUs such as Candon (Ilocos Sur), and Pandi (Bulacan), the Tanging Yaman Foundation in Ateneo, Rotary Clubs in the Philippines and South Korea continued and this benefited several hospital healthcare workers when CEF provided them nourishment and food,” said Annie. “Through their unquantifiable support, we are still in our undying mission beyond my lifetime just to be the influencers in the frontline fusing food security and care for our God-given life sources: Land, Air, and Water — the LAW of Life.”

Through all of these initiatives, CEF has made significant strides in promoting sustainable farming and eco-friendly practices across the Philippines. Annie’s philosophy of empowering communities through education and sustainable livelihoods has been proven successful in nurturing a greener and more environmentally conscious future.

In fact, her published books, including the “A-Z Guide for a Green Kitchen” and “A-Z Guide for a Green Pinoy,” have served as valuable guides for encouraging Filipinos to embrace a zero-waste lifestyle.

As CEF continues to make a positive impact, the organization’s dedication to bokashi composting and other sustainable practices remains unwavering, providing hope for a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

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