By Parker Shane Manalaysay, Philippines
As we step into 2026, the year the High Seas Treaty officially enters into force, I find myself reflecting on what this milestone means for young people everywhere. This isn’t just a policy victory but a call to action. And moments like our recent event in Cebu remind me why youth engagement matters now more than ever. We are not only inheriting the ocean’s future but we are actively shaping it.
When I walked into the Edward Norton Hall of San Carlos School of Cebu – North Campus last November 28, 2025, I felt both excitement and responsibility. As a High Seas Youth Ambassador, I’ve grown used to speaking before young people, but this event felt different. It was an opportunity to spark a deeper sense of ocean stewardship among senior high school students.
Just minutes into the screening of “Ocean with David Attenborough,” the hall fell silent. The sweeping visuals and Attenborough’s narration drew them completely in. That’s the magic of storytelling through film. It invites people into the ocean’s world long before they ever step into it.
Film Showing of ‘Ocean with David Attenborough’ at Edward Norton Hall, San Carlos School of Cebu – North Campus. Parker Shane Manalaysay
Sharing the Story of the High Seas
During my talk, I introduced students to the high seas, the vast ocean space beyond national jurisdiction that covers nearly half of our planet. I explained its crucial role in climate regulation and biodiversity, then walked them through the High Seas Treaty (BBNJ Agreement). And most importantly, I shared what this moment means for all of us:
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But more than facts and policies, I wanted them to understand why this matters personally:
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The Power of Youth Choices
I was joined by Leo Anthony C. Castro, Executive Director of Mangrove Matters PH and Communications Lead of the Global Mangrove Alliance Philippines. Leo spoke about climate responsibility in both gentle and urgent terms discussing plastic consumption, ethical tourism, and digital activism.
Two of his statements resonated strongly with the students:
“Always remember that while holding corporations and governments accountable is important, we must also do our part as consumers; whether in reducing our plastic and textile footprint, practicing ethical wildlife tourism, or advocating digitally. We always have the power to change systems.”
| And the one that made many students nod, almost instinctively:
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In Gratitude to a School That Lives Its Values
This event would not have been possible without the support of Mr. Andrew Dy, Principal of San Carlos School of Cebu – North Campus. Mr. Dy is a firm advocate of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, actively integrating them into the school’s programs, culture, and student initiatives. We are deeply grateful to him for inviting us to host the film screening on their campus and for opening space for our lectures.
Parker and Leo accepting their tokens of appreciation as guest speakers.
What I Learned From the Students
After each session, students came up to us with smart, honest questions about ocean protection, climate solutions, youth advocacy, and how they could get involved. Some asked about careers in marine science. Others wanted to explore volunteering opportunities. Some simply wanted to thank us for opening their eyes.
That’s when it struck me:
Hope is not passive. It’s something we build with people. And in Cebu that day, surrounded by students who cared, hope felt abundant. As we wrapped up the event, I felt deeply grateful because storytelling, education, and youth engagement remain some of the most powerful tools we have to protect our shared ocean.
Parker and Leo with the senior high school students of San Carlos School of Cebu – North Campus.