The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) continued cultivating climate awareness and an appreciation for agriculture among young learners through its Youth in Agri Talk Show. The show aired its fourth episode, titled "Climate Detectives: The Case of the Changing Climate," on 15 May 2026 at 7:00 p.m. (GMT +8:00) on SEARCA's Facebook page.
The episode garnered 55,000 organic views, with the largest audiences coming from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Timor-Leste. It turned complex climate science into an engaging and playful investigation. The show featured Mr. Ochie San Juan, Chief Farmer and Co-Founder of Mayani, an agri-tech startup, who stepped in as the "Chief Detective." Throughout the episode, San Juan fielded insightful questions from curious students across Southeast Asia.
Among the young investigators was a student from the Red Cross Youth San Pablo City Chapter in the Philippines, who asked why climate change matters even when local temperatures do not feel hotter. Another student from Tarlac National High School in the Philippines sought clarification on the difference between climate change adaptation and mitigation. Raising concerns about irrigation, another student from the Red Cross Youth San Pablo City Chapter in the Philippines asked where farmers can source water during prolonged dry seasons. From Cambodia, a student from Achievers International School inquired about how pests and unpredictable weather patterns damage crops and affect food security. Finally, a student from SMP Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto in Indonesia asked about practical actions young people can take at home and in school to protect the planet.
San Juan unraveled these mysteries using simple, everyday analogies. He compared weather to a daily "mood" and climate to a "personality," explaining how human activities thicken Earth's "blanket" of greenhouse gases. To demonstrate climate-smart solutions, the team played a game called "Identify the Clue," which showcased practical tools such as drip irrigation systems that deliver water directly to plant roots without waste; composting that nourish soil and retain moisture; and climate-resilient seeds bred to withstand extreme heat, dry spells, and floods.
San Juan encouraged young viewers to reduce food waste, start small gardens at home or in school, compost, and speak up about environmental issues. He emphasized that it is vital for everyone, even at a young age, to understand how to care for the environment, respond to climate change, and appreciate the farmers and fisherfolk who work hard to put food on their plates.
Mr. Almas Faliq Ahdanai, an educator from SMP Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto, expressed appreciation for the school's participation in the show.
"It was such an honor and valuable experience to be part of this meaningful program. We truly appreciate the opportunity and look forward to future collaborations with SEARCA in empowering young people through inspiring initiatives."
The SEARCA Youth in Agri Talk Show uses an innovative, non-conventional approach to learning designed specifically to spark interest in agriculture among basic education students across Southeast Asia. The show's educational value and regional relevance are reinforced by official endorsements from both the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) and the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd).
Previous episodes have presented agriculture as a viable career path, explored the vital ecological role of beneficial insects, and highlighted the positive effects of school and home gardens on student development. The fourth episode was hosted by SEARCA youth ambassadors, Ms. Zara Mae Estareja, Senior Associate for Public Relations, and Mr. Joseph Matthew Hedreyda, Senior Associate for Partnerships and Advocacy, both of the Partnerships Unit.
Missed the investigation? Watch the full episode at https://bit.ly/YATS4-ClimateDetectives