CEMEX Philippines Foundation, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Education (DepED) recognized the new breed of "environmentalists" during the awarding ceremony of the 2nd CEMEX National Art Competition.

The competition was aimed at promoting the awareness of, and encouraging participation in the protection and stewardship of the environment through the artistic abilities of children from public elementary schools.

Judged by a distinguished panel of judges, six hopefuls were chosen and hailed the best from a field of 250 artworks. Their unique contributions individually captured this year's environmental theme "Pamana ng Bayan sa Kapaligiran."

First place honors were awarded to Ronnel Lacas of Don Miguel Elementary School for his work entitled "Mga Yamang Likas, Aking Aalagaan, Ipapamana ko sa aking Bayan". Resty Cagayat and Justen Paul Tolentino from Quinale Elementary School and St. Stephen High School came in second and third, respectively. Honorable mentions were awarded to Lyra Durante, Carlo Maturan and Vanessa Cherry Pearl Escucha.

In addition to children who topped the craypass category, three other students also won in the special category. This second category was open to all entries which used environment-friendly materials. Topping the category were: Sweet Frauleine Base, Nhica Edusada and Florijoy Tuazon.