Artists Together for Nature: Cataleya Surio Inspires a Movement
Cataleya Surio is known for her dazzling presence on the silver screen, commanding runways, and representing iconic brands, but there’s more to her than meets the eye. Every September 2, as she marks her birthday, Cataleya has made it her mission to spread joy — not through grand celebrations or extravagant parties, but by bringing smiles to children in orphanages.
This year, however, her birthday took a different turn. A powerful typhoon swept across the country on September 2, forcing Cataleya to stay home and witness the devastation unfold on the news. The widespread flooding and landslides moved her deeply, and as she scrolled through Facebook the following day, she saw countless cries for help and calls for bayanihan (community unity).
“It feels good to help those in need, but beyond temporary aid, we must address the root of the problem,” Cataleya reflected. “Disasters will come again and again, but what we truly need is discipline and a sincere commitment to protecting our environment.”
This realization led her to shift her focus from providing temporary happiness to creating lasting impact. Instead of her usual visits to orphanages, she set her sights on protecting and preserving the environment — not just for the present but for future generations.
Cataleya reached out to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for a permit to plant trees at the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park. While she learned that such a project required extensive planning, she launched an interim initiative: the Environmental Campaign Act: Save and Protect Our Environment. This campaign included coastal clean-ups, nature walks, and bird-watching activities at the park’s bird sanctuary.
Cataleya began rallying her friends in the film industry and partnered with organizations such as DENR, MDTA Center of Performing Arts, Parañaque Elite Eagles Club, Team Cataleyanatics, Lugawan Ni Kuya Mario in San Dionisio, and private individuals who shared her vision. Together, they embarked on their first steps toward demonstrating love and care for the environment.
“We hope this initiative inspires others to show their compassion for nature,” Cataleya shared. “What we do today isn’t just for us but for the generations to come. We are merely guests in this world — let’s leave a legacy of care and stewardship.”
For Cataleya, caring for the environment goes beyond a cause; it’s a spiritual responsibility. “The animals and trees are blessings from God. We must cherish and protect them. Let us not take them for granted. Let us fear the consequences of arrogance toward our surroundings.”
As she closed her message, Cataleya left a heartfelt plea: “I do all of this with joy and sincerity. May we all bring delight to the Lord. Let’s reflect on our actions while there is still time.”
Cataleya Surio’s journey from a celebrated artist to an environmental advocate reminds us that even in glamour, there is room for humility, love, and the desire to leave the world a better place.