
OUR TEAM
Ostrom Climate is one of North America’s leading providers of carbon management solutions. Based in Burnaby, British Columbia, our team bridges the gap between commitment and action for people and organizations rising to the global challenge of climate change.
Ostrom Climate Solutions Inc.
Suite 380- 4111 Hastings Street,
Burnaby BC, V5C 2J3
Canada
604.646.0400

Tejinder Virk

Paula Cabral Achilles

Rosita Morandin

Kellayna Weinberger

Dawn Hancock

Sarah van Waterschoot

Jack Mann

Romilly Cavanaugh

Antonio Monisit

Jack Satzewich

Francois du Toit

Craig Moore

Pramila Khatri Chhetri

Loni Pierce

Gurveen Arora

Kris Chen

Matt Walker

Chloe Papalazarou

Raniela R. Rabe

Aurelio G. Salvador III

Leo Q. Diaz

Marco Dela Cruz

Richard D. Fronda

Joshua Emmanuel Castillo

Allen Mae N. Rodolfo

Daniel M. Tomas

Rodrigo A. Villota

Arjay C. Huliganga

Bendio Mar Patricio

Czarina Elemencio

Gian Carlo Claus

Isagani P. Pineda

Jannette D. Salvador

Jerwin Rey Gagelonia

Leandro G. Tecson

Mariel M. Santiago

Mark DC. Tolentino

Mark Joseph Sabatin

Michael V. Cababag

Jhyt D. Dorado

July Kimberly Anne DG. Rufino

Arnold M. Salazar
Tejinder Virk
Tejinder Virk is the CEO of Ostrom Climate Solutions, based in London, UK. He leads the organization by working closely with key final emitter stakeholders and the company’s in-house team of technical carbon experts. Tejinder began his career in investment banking, spending 15 years at BMO Capital Markets, where he served as Managing Director, focused on a broad range of sectors including Renewables (Wind, Hydro, Solar), Commodities (Agriculture, Critical Metals, Energy, Forestry, Precious Metals), Technology (AI, Internet, Software, Blockchain), Consumer Goods, Retail, and Biotech. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in more than 100 IPOs and follow-on capital raises and earned top rankings in the Global Equities category by the prestigious Thomson Reuters Extel survey – over multiple years.
In the past 5 years, Tejinder has founded and held executive positions at multiple fast-growing global companies. He has built a reputation for driving industry-leading innovation, successfully executing cross-border M&A, raising funds for both mature businesses and start-ups, launching products in B2B and B2C markets, regulatory advancements, e-commerce expansions, and the establishment of supply chains on every continent. He received a Bachelor of Applied Science with Honours in Systems Design Engineering from the University of Waterloo in Canada.
Tejinder is also the Managing Partner and Co-Founder of NLX Capital, a firm focused on climate finance and sustainability-focused venture capital. He sits on the Advisory Board of ArcStone Securities & Investment Corp, which recently acquired New York-based, FINRA-registered broker-dealer Arcview Capital LLC.
Rosita Morandin
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Rosita worked primarily with start-up companies in emerging markets, managing their finances, accounting, and financial reporting. She has almost 20 years of accounting experience and she continues to build on her strengths to develop the balance, accuracy, and consistency required in her accounting and financial leadership role. Her role as CFO is primarily focused on public financial statement reporting, internal controls, and continuously improving systems and processes within the company. She also holds the position of Corporate Secretary.
Rosita has a B.B.A. and (after taking some time off to become the proud mother of twins) will soon complete her CPA designation.
Kellayna Weinberger
Kellayna brings 14 years of experience in financial accounting, and preparation of IFRS compliant financial statements for both public and private multi-entity, and multi-national organizations in various industries. Kellayna has managed internal and external reporting for her previous clients at two Vancouver-based accounting firms specializing in outsourced accounting and CFO services and guiding the process of taking private companies public.
She is intimately familiar with process improvement for new public companies requiring assistance in bringing their reporting structure into compliance with IFRS and managing the annual audit process so management can focus on executing their business plans.
As Ostrom Climate’s operations scale up, Kellayna is committed to streamlining reporting processes to support strategic decision making in order to increase shareholder value.
Kellayna holds her CPA, CGA accounting designation, and an Honours Bachelor of Commerce from Laurentian University.
Dawn Hancock
Dawn manages all aspects of our voluntary-market client relationships. Dawn ensures that our team is meeting each clients’ needs and expectations on a timely basis. She is passionate about helping clients be more effective and productive in achieving their sustainability goals.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Dawn helped to plan the GLOBE Latin America 2011 conference. She also managed the administration team at SLR Consulting, a Canadian environmental consultancy. Before that, she managed the database department for a software company for the financial industry—where she helped design software that automated previously manual processes—ensuring accuracy and consistency in individuals’ financial portfolios.
Dawn holds a B.A. Honours degree in English Language & Literature and was certified as a Sustainability Professional by the Canadian Professional Sustainability Institute in 2011.
Sarah van Waterschoot
As Marketing & Client Engagement Coordinator, Sarah is passionate about helping individuals and companies manage their carbon emissions. She is responsible for supporting the Director of Sales & Marketing by ensuring a timely turnaround of client requests. She also maintains Ostrom Climate’s online presence to drive client engagement and revenue growth.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Sarah worked as a Digital Marketing Manager for an Ontario-based startup where she cultivated a strong understanding of digital trends in the development of strategic marketing campaigns. She also worked as a pro-bono consultant with an NHL team, developing innovative plans for the team’s training center. Throughout university, Sarah had the chance to plant over 250,000 trees in Alberta and Manitoba, an experience that fueled her enthusiasm for climate action, conservation, and sustainable business.
Sarah holds an Honours Business Administration degree from the Richard Ivey School of Business and a B.A. in Kinesiology, Sports Management from Western University.
Jack Mann
Jack leads the sales and business development function for Ostrom Climate, specializing in delivering high-integrity Net Zero solutions, carbon intelligence services, and carbon credit trading strategies. He focuses on sourcing and facilitating the sale of high-quality, low-risk carbon credits to support organizations in meeting their climate commitments.
In his previous role at Ostrom Climate, Jack supported clients with GHG inventory management, emissions accounting, and reduction strategy development. His work focused heavily on decarbonizing infrastructure projects within the built environment, helping companies implement Net Zero targets, Science-Based Targets (SBTi), and long-term GHG reduction goals.
Jack’s background in sustainability consulting, policy compliance, and environmental research provides a strong foundation for his current role, where he ensures that all offset projects offered — from forestry to methane capture — meet the highest environmental and social integrity standards.
He holds an MSc in Environmental Science and Management and a BSc in Environmental Geography from the University of York, England.
Romilly Cavanaugh
Romilly manages corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories, GHG reduction initiatives, climate change risk assessment, and adaptation plans, product life cycle studies, water footprinting, and sustainability programs. She has been an environmental engineer for more than 30 years and has managed over 100 projects, working with companies such as Ballard Power Systems, lululemon, Harbour Air, Canfor Corporation, and Colliers International.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Romilly provided a variety of consulting services to companies including environmental impact assessments, construction planning, and monitoring, government reporting, and environmental training. She has also completed environment, health and safety audits for Fortune 500 companies including Levi Strauss & Co, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, and NCR Corporation.
Romilly has an M.A. in Sustainability and Environmental Management from Harvard University, where she received the Dean’s List Academic Achievement Award. She is also the recipient of the Fellow of Engineers Canada award for exceptional contributions to the profession of engineering and was the first Canadian to obtain professional accreditation in the field of ecology through the Canada Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program.
Antonio Monisit
Antonio brings over a decade of expertise in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions quantification, specializing in the application of the GHG Protocol and sustainability frameworks. At Ostrom Climate, he partners with clients to develop and maintain corporate GHG inventories, advancing emission reduction initiatives and sustainability programs.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Antonio consulted multinational companies on sustainability disclosures, focusing on GHG emissions, water use and wastewater generation, and waste accounting. Previously, as an environmental regulator in the Philippines, he collaborated with diverse industries and stakeholders to achieve effective pollution control and waste management.
Antonio holds a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of the Philippines Diliman and pursued advanced studies in Environmental Studies at the University of the Philippines Cebu. He is also an FSA Credential Holder with the IFRS Foundation.
Jack Satzewich
Jack is responsible for supporting the Domestic Land Use team from project planning stages to final verification. He works with a diverse group of clients across Canada to reach regulatory and voluntary climate goals. Jack applies a low carbon resilience lens to his work, acknowledging the necessity to address greenhouse gas emissions and reduce vulnerabilities to the impacts of climate change.
Jack has experience working in silviculture (Alberta and Ontario), academia, not-for-profit and, municipal governments. He has a B.A. and a Master of Resource Management degree from Simon Fraser University. Jack understands that it is a privilege to live, work and play on the unceded traditional territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
Francois du Toit
As the Technical Carbon Manager, Francois provides technical guidance and assists in reviewing and refining assumptions and outputs related to carbon quantification. He contributes to QA/QC processes, project reports, and provides geospatial and carbon quantification support. With a PhD in remote sensing of forests, Francois has experience in leveraging LiDAR and satellite-derived data to analyze forest attributes, growth patterns, and carbon dynamics. His expertise includes applying process-based models to optimize carbon sequestration, creating reproducible workflows, and developing innovative metrics for forest management and genetic improvement applications.
Craig Moore
Craig is responsible for supporting the Domestic Land Use team in the design, risk assessment and implementation of multi-stakeholder emissions reduction land-use projects across Canada. He works with clients from diverse backgrounds to ensure that these projects meet the necessary and relevant standards, including the Verified Carbon Standard and the American Carbon Registry Standard. Craig understands the importance of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions and is determined to play his part in helping reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Craig’s previous experience includes a research intern position with the International Rice Research Institute in Vietnam where he worked with a team of scientists on a project that assessed the impacts of climatic variability on the maize crop in agricultural areas of Vietnam, and most recently as an environmental technician in Vancouver, Canada. He holds a B.A. and a M.Sc. in Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security from the University of Galway in Ireland.
Pramila Khatri Chhetri
Pramila supports Ostrom Climate’s project development, validation and verification through forest carbon quantification, growth and yield modelling and geospatial analysis. She holds a Ph.D. in Forestry from the University of British Columbia. She did research about forest carbon modelling and its applications.
Loni Pierce
As a Qualitative Land Use Analyst, Loni supports the development of land-use carbon projects in North America through work in project design, social and biodiversity impact assessments, feasibility studies, and the creation of informational material around the carbon marketplace.
Loni has both public and private sector experience tied to her forestry and communications background. Over many years in public service, she worked on multiple files, including forest carbon and biomass. During this time, she was on a team that created a provincial Forest Carbon Policy, with one of her responsibilities being stakeholder and Indigenous engagement. In the private sector, Loni’s tasks often included research, development, and due diligence for clients and projects linked to the voluntary carbon market. While she worked on various project types, her focus remains on nature-based solutions.
Loni holds a Diploma in Forest Resources Technology from Vancouver Island University, and a BPA in Communication Studies from Athabasca University.
Gurveen Arora
As a Forest Carbon Analyst, Gurveen is responsible for supporting her team in geospatial mapping, growth and yield modelling in carbon accounting for sustainable forest management and climate action. She holds a PhD in forestry from the Forest Research Institute in India. She has also pursued a Master of International Forestry from UBC to gain exposure to global forest issues and natural resource management.
Gurveen has experience in the development and Measurement, Reporting, and Verification of REDD+ projects. She is professionally trained in GHG emission estimates from forest and other land use-related emissions and removal sources from the GHG Management Institute and the UNFCCC-GIR Programme. In her free time, she loves to explore new places and culture.
Kris Chen
As a Forest Carbon Analyst at Ostrom Climate, Kris Chen applies his expertise in carbon accounting to support sustainable land use initiatives. His work involves detailed spatial analysis and growth modeling, essential for the development and verification of carbon projects that aim to bolster sustainable forestry and climate action.
Kris holds a B.Sc. in Natural Resources Conservation and an M.Sc. in Sustainable Forest Management from the University of British Columbia. His practical experience is highlighted by his key role in developing the Forest Carbon Management Plan for the Ulkatcho First Nation in BC, underscoring his commitment to improving carbon stocks and aiding community-focused forest management objectives.
Matt Walker
Matt supports the Domestic Land Use team in the development of land use carbon projects across Canada. He works with diverse clients to promote climate action by supporting on feasibility studies and various aspects of project development.
Matt has experience in environmental consulting, including projects related to fisheries, water quality, conservation, resource mapping, and corporate sustainability planning. He is passionate about sustainability and aligning incentive structures to reduce social and environmental impacts. Matt holds a B.Env.Sc. from the University of Manitoba and an MBA in Sustainable Innovation from the University of Victoria. Matt recognizes the privilege to live, work and play on the unceded traditional territory of the Lək̓ʷəŋən Peoples (Songhees and Esquimalt Nations).
Chloe Papalazarou
Chloe is responsible for the methodology compliance, quantitative analysis and technical documentation of the UPRIIS Climate-Smart Rice project in collaboration with the Carbon Project Development team in the Philippines. Her responsibilities include supporting project management, qualitative and quantitative analysis, process documentation and technical writing, and leading the working group for project registration.
Chloe has a BSc. in Medical Physics from the University of Guelph and an MSc. in Geography from Simon Fraser University where she researched differences in carbon dioxide removal scenarios using Earth Systems Models. Additionally, she holds a Certificate in Forest Carbon Management from UBC. Prior to joining Ostrom Climate, she worked for various companies gaining skills in remote sensing, climate change and nature-based solutions. Her previous work experience includes her role as a Data Scientist for Sparkgeo, where she worked on a variety of projects honing skills in geospatial data management and remote sensing. She also has experience as a Forest Carbon Analyst for the Verified Science team at Pachama, where she developed further knowledge of forest carbon projects, technical writing and quantitative analysis of forest carbon data.
Raniela R. Rabe
Raniela serves as the Project Director of the Climate-Smart Rice Project in the Philippines, bringing 18 years of comprehensive experience in program and project management within the sustainability sector. Her expertise spans across carbon project development, sustainability strategies, and technical-based leadership that leads to data-driven results.
Her commitment to Ostrom Climate’s climate actions aligns with her passion for reducing emissions and minimizing environmental impact. Her strong academic foundation—holding both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Environmental Engineering and Management, in addition to a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering—enables her to effectively bridge technical expertise with strategic leadership. With a unique ability to navigate both business and environmental landscapes, Raniela is dedicated to advancing transformative solutions that foster a more sustainable and resilient future.
Aurelio G. Salvador III
Aurelio (Au) currently serves as the Operations & Compliance Manager for the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Systems (UPRIIS) Climate-Smart Rice Project. In this role, he is primarily responsible for supporting the project team in optimizing day-to-day operations to ensure seamless project delivery. He also leads efforts in mobilizing the team to fulfill all documentary and reportorial requirements, ensuring that the project complies with both national regulations and international standards.
A licensed Agricultural Engineer, Aurelio brings extensive experience in agricultural planning, project management, and regulatory compliance. Prior to his current role, he served as Planning Officer III under the Agriculture and Fisheries Industrialization Development Program, and later transitioned to a key role under the Office of the Undersecretary for Livestock at the Department of Agriculture in the Philippines.
His earlier work includes serving as Project Leader of the Rice Business Innovations System (RiceBIS) Program, a flagship initiative of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), where he led integrated interventions to strengthen rice-based agribusiness enterprises.
Before joining PhilRice, Aurelio worked in the private sector as a Service Manager for an agricultural machinery distribution company, where he supported government mechanization programs focused on enhancing agricultural production and post-harvest operations.
Aurelio’s cross-sectoral experience across government, research, and private industry positions him uniquely to drive innovations and ensure operational excellence in climate-smart agriculture initiatives.
Leo Q. Diaz
Leo serves as the focal and coordinator for all GHG quantification activities under the Climate-Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Systems. He ensures compliance with GHG quantification protocols and the technical requirements necessary for VCU issuance.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Leo gained valuable experience in the Research and Development sector of the Philippine Rice Research Institute. As a researcher, he focused on developing sustainable rice straw management practices and innovative technologies for food, feed, and bioenergy in the Philippines. He also contributed to initiatives that strengthened the capacity of Local Government Units to address rice yield gaps in Central Luzon, while actively engaging in rice extension and training programs aimed at enhancing productivity and farmer incomes.
Leo holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering and is a licensed Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer. Outside of his professional work, he is a passionate advocate for community service, regularly volunteering with indigenous communities. An avid hiker and animal lover, Leo enjoys spending his free time fostering stray cats while exploring the outdoors.
Marco Dela Cruz
Marco leads field operations for The Climate-Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Systems (UPRIIS), overseeing the implementation of Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) protocols in accordance with carbon project standards. As Team Lead, he manages, monitors, and controls farmer-related field activities to support the verification and registration process, ultimately contributing to the issuance of Verified Carbon Units (VCUs). He coordinates operations across distributed project sites, ensuring technical compliance, operational efficiency, and effective stakeholder engagement.
He applies advanced geographic information systems (GIS) and digital monitoring tools to support spatial analysis, field documentation, and precision planning. His work strengthens project implementation strategies, enables data-driven decision-making, and ensures timely, MRV-compliant reporting in support of climate mitigation goals.
A licensed Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer and co-inventor of rice machinery developed during his tenure as a researcher-engineer at the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Marco brings systems engineering expertise to optimize project delivery and provide technical insight critical to the success of climate-smart agriculture initiatives.
Richard D. Fronda
Richard (Chad) plays a pivotal role in the implementation of the GHG measurement study under the project. He co-supervises soil sampling, sample preparation, and processing, and leads weekly gas sampling and field data collection. Additionally, Richard monitors the adoption and compliance of farmers with Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) practices at the AWD Field School.
Prior to joining Ostrom Climate, Richard worked as a Quality Assurance Inspector, ensuring the quality consistency of rice and palay and overseeing programs that complied with FSSC 22000, Halal, and ISO standards. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science, majoring in Soil Science.
Joshua Emmanuel Castillo
Joshua “Joem” is dedicated to promoting sustainable farming practices and environmental responsibility through his work with Ostrom Climate Solutions. As a leader in Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology, Joem helps farmers improve water productivity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions without compromising rice yields. He leads AWD field schools at LURIMADEL and PLAMABOS Irrigators Associations under NIA-UPRIIS Division 2, where he facilitates farmer training, coordinates project schedules, and prepares regular reports on project progress, challenges, and solutions.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Joem worked as an RSBSA Geo-referencing Field Assistant at the Department of Agriculture, Region III. In this role, he conducted field area validations, showcasing his strong socialization and communication skills, especially with farmers.
Joem holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Bio-systems Engineering from Central Luzon State University, and is passionate about advancing sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both farmers and the environment.
Allen Mae N. Rodolfo
Allen is a key member of the Training Team for the Climate-Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Systems, where she leads farmer training on Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology. This innovative water-saving technique helps reduce methane emissions by replacing traditional continuous flooding in rice paddies, contributing to more sustainable rice production. In addition to training, Allen provides ongoing advisory services to farmers, guiding them in the adoption of climate-resilient practices that enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Allen served as a Science Research Assistant at the Philippine Rice Research Institute for three years, where she gained valuable experience in agricultural research. Her dedication to empowering farmers is evident in both her fieldwork and community engagement, where she works tirelessly to create lasting, positive change in rural farming communities.
Allen holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Central Luzon State University and became a Licensed Agriculturist in 2019. She is also an active member of the Philippine Association of Agriculturists, Inc., underscoring her commitment to advancing the agricultural sector.
Daniel M. Tomas
Daniel is a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate, where he focuses on implementing sustainable farming practices and utilizing modern technologies to enhance rice production. His work plays a key role in driving climate-smart agriculture solutions that support both productivity and environmental sustainability.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Daniel gained valuable experience as a Territory Lead Trainee at Bioseed Research Philippines Inc. for nearly five years, where he developed strong sales and marketing skills while contributing to advancements in rice cultivation. He also spent almost three years as a Quality Assurance professional at SL Agritech Corporation, ensuring the highest quality standards for rice products.
Daniel’s international experience includes working as a vegetable farmer in Japan, which broadened his understanding of agricultural practices and provided a global perspective on sustainable farming techniques.
With a solid educational foundation, diverse professional experience, and a deep commitment to innovation and sustainability, Daniel is dedicated to making a positive impact on the agriculture industry.
Rodrigo A. Villota
Rodrigo (Rod) is a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate Solutions Inc., focusing on the Climate Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS) in Central Luzon, Philippines. In this role, he trains farmers on adopting Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in rice production. Rod’s responsibilities include providing farmer advisory services, facilitating field schools, conducting farmers’ classes, developing AWD curriculum, preparing project schedules, and submitting progress reports.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Rod worked at the Philippine Rice Research Institute, where he gained valuable experience in farm operations and machinery testing. He holds a Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering from Central Luzon State University and is committed to continuous learning and professional development. In his free time, Rod enjoys playing basketball and watching movies.
Arjay C. Huliganga
Graduated at Central Luzon State University with a degree in Agricultural Engineering, Arjay is currently a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate Solution, Inc. His involvement in the implementation of the project “The Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System” significantly contributes to the project’s goals by promoting Alternative Wetting and Drying (AWD) in rice production leading to reduction of greenhouse gas emissions that worsen global warming.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, he was a Science Research Specialist at the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) – the implementing agency of the RCEF program. Assigned to the Facility and Field Management and Field Operations Division (FMFOD), he successfully facilitated the distribution of agricultural machinery to Farmer Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs) in several areas in the country.
His commitment and passion in working for the farmers is instrumental in achieving the organization’s goals and targets.
Bendio Mar Patricio
Bendio “Bego” is a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate, where he specializes in implementing water management technologies that significantly reduce methane emissions in rice fields. This work plays a crucial role in promoting climate-smart agriculture and supporting sustainable farming practices. With a strong foundation in crop management and environmental stewardship, Bego brings hands-on expertise to the field, ensuring that strategies not only reduce greenhouse gases but also enhance rice productivity.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Bego served as a Sales Technician at Universal Robina Corporation (URC), where he gained valuable experience in agricultural product solutions and farmer engagement. His blend of technical knowledge and practical experience makes him a dedicated advocate for sustainable agriculture and innovation in the field.
Czarina Elemencio
Czarina is currently serving as a Field Supervisor for the Climate-Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Systems (UPRIIS). She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, with a specialization in Soil Science and Microbiology, from Central Luzon State University. Her undergraduate thesis was conducted at the University of Miyazaki in Miyazaki, Japan, where she further developed her academic foundation in sustainable agricultural practices.
Affiliated with Ostrom Climate Inc., Ms. Czarina plays a critical role in overseeing the implementation of climate-resilient rice production systems, with a particular focus on reducing methane emissions through the application of Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology. She consistently applies her expertise in crop management, soil science, and sustainable farming techniques to support the project’s environmental and productivity goals.
With over four years of experience in agricultural management, Ms. Czarina has developed strong competencies in crop monitoring, team supervision, and stakeholder engagement. She works closely with farmers and institutional partners to promote efficient, low-emission agricultural practices that enhance yields, reduce costs, and contribute to improved rural livelihoods. Her professional dedication and commitment to sustainable agriculture reflect her broader goal of addressing the challenges posed by climate change through science-based, community-oriented solutions.
Gian Carlo Claus
Gian Carlo C. Claus is a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate Solutions Inc., where he is actively involved in the Climate-Smart Rice Project within the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System. His primary role is to promote the adoption of Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology in rice production—a water management practice that alternates between wet and dry periods to reduce water usage and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
Gian Carlo holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Central Luzon State University. Before joining Ostrom Climate, he gained extensive experience as an Agronomist, working with various organizations in crop management and agricultural research. His expertise includes optimizing fertilizer applications, improving crop yields, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
With a passion for applying scientific principles to enhance agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship, Gian Carlo is committed to driving impactful, sustainable solutions in the agriculture sector.
Isagani P. Pineda
Isagani currently serves as a Team Lead at Ostrom Climate Solutions, overseeing the Climate-Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System. The project focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in rice production across Central Luzon, Philippines. Isagani’s primary responsibility is to deliver comprehensive training to farmers and farmer groups, facilitating the adoption of Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology.
With a background in agricultural research, Isagani previously worked as a Science Research Specialist at the Philippine Rice Research Institute, where he contributed to the development of cost-effective rice production technologies, including systems for mechanically transplanted and direct-seeded rice, as well as water-saving techniques like AWD and drip-irrigated aerobic rice. He also gained valuable experience at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), working on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) projects in the most vulnerable regions of Southern Luzon.
Isagani holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Extension Education and is a licensed Professional Agriculturist. He is passionate about farming and animal husbandry, and committed to improving sustainable agricultural practices.
Jannette D. Salvador
Jannette is the Finance Officer at Ostrom Climate Philippines, bringing extensive expertise in financial management and advisory services. Prior to joining Ostrom, she held leadership roles as Manager and Financial Advisor at AIA Philippines, and worked as a Real Estate Property Advisor. Jannette dedicated over a decade to the Finance Department of PhilRice, where she played key roles, including Accounting Processor, Budget Assistant for Foreign and Trust Funds, and Petty Cash Custodian. She also contributed significantly to the development of PhilRice’s computerized Disbursement and Budget Accounting System.
Beyond her professional career, Jannette finds her greatest fulfillment in being a mother to two wonderful daughters, whom she actively supports in nurturing their talents and pursuing a quality education.
Jerwin Rey Gagelonia
Jerwin Rey B. Gagelonia is a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate Solutions, where he oversees field operations, focusing on the collection, organization, and management of critical project data. His role is essential in advancing project milestones and ensuring timely progress toward the issuance of Verified Carbon Units (VCUs). Through effective field strategies, technical expertise, and stakeholder coordination, Jerwin contributes to the successful execution of key project objectives.
Jerwin holds a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness from Central Luzon State University (2023). He brings a diverse background in agricultural operations and crop management, with prior experience as a Crop Protection Representative at International Veterinary and Agrochemicals Inc., Farm Supervisor at Oliver Enterprises, and Rice Specialist at Ostrom Climate Solutions.
Outside of work, Jerwin is passionate about motorsports and music. He is an active member of his community, playing in a band and contributing to the Roman Catholic Church’s Music Ministry.
Leandro G. Tecson
Leandro Tecson is a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate Solutions, leading the Climate Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS). With a strong foundation in field coordination and sustainable agriculture, Leandro works closely with local stakeholders, farming communities, and technical teams to implement climate-smart practices in rice production. His role is key to aligning on-the-ground realities with project goals, promoting resilience, optimizing resource use, and driving the transition to low-emission farming systems in one of the Philippines’ most critical agricultural regions.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Leandro contributed to a project-based role with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), supporting the piloting and scaling of safe and sustainable vegetable production in the Philippines. The project focused on enhancing food safety, promoting integrated pest and nutrient management, and improving the economic viability of smallholder farmers. Leandro’s contributions included on-ground coordination, capacity building, and developing science-based recommendations tailored to diverse agroecological contexts.
Leandro holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and is a licensed Agriculturist. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys capturing landscapes through filming and watercolor painting, blending his creative passion with his appreciation for nature.
Mariel M. Santiago
Mariel is a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate Solutions, where she oversees the Climate Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS). In this role, she organizes field schools on Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology and provides expert recommendations on sustainable rice production practices. Mariel also ensures the successful implementation of AWD, compiling detailed reports on project achievements, challenges, and corrective actions taken.
During her college years, Mariel served as Secretary and President of the CLSU Green Crusaders, where she gained valuable experience in leading meetings and coordinating activities. After graduating, she worked as a Science Aide, where she contributed to field inspections of seed growers and performed germination analysis. Over her four-year tenure, Mariel participated in various seminars and training focused on varietal identification and rice seed production, further deepening her expertise in agriculture.
Mark DC. Tolentino
Mark is a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate in the Philippines, currently working on the Climate Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS) since May 2024. In this role, he oversees all field-based operations, focusing on the collection, organization, and management of critical project data. Mark’s efforts are instrumental in advancing project milestones and ensuring timely progress toward the issuance of Verified Carbon Units (VCUs). By applying field strategies, technical expertise, and effective stakeholder coordination, he plays a key role in the project’s success.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Mark earned his BS in Agriculture, majoring in Crop Science with a focus on Rice Production from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology. He began his career as an Admin Aide at DA LGU-Sto. Domingo, and later gained valuable experience at Farmers Atlas Marketing as a Demand Creation Activity Team member. Mark then joined Syngenta Philippines, where he worked as a Trade Campaign Associate and was promoted to Sales Representative, covering the CALABARZON and Mindoro regions.
With over 3 years of experience in agriculture, particularly in rice production, Mark brings a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise to his role as a Field Supervisor.
Mark Joseph Sabatin
Macky is a Field Supervisor and member of the Training Team at Ostrom Climate Solutions Inc., working on the Climate Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS). In this role, he supervises farmers in adopting Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology to enhance water management and boost rice production.
Before joining Ostrom Climate, Macky served as a Science Research Analyst at the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization, where he provided training assistance to farmer cooperatives and associations on operating new technologies to improve rice production.
Michael V. Cababag
Michael “Mike” is an Agriculture graduate with extensive experience in the agricultural industry, specializing in rice production. Currently, he serves as a Field Supervisor at Ostrom Climate Solutions, Inc., overseeing the Climate-Smart Rice Project in the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS) in Central Luzon, Philippines.
In his role, Mike organizes and facilitates Farmer Field Schools focused on implementing Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology, a key initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable water management in rice production. The project, in collaboration with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) and other partners, helping smallholder rice farmers mitigate methane emissions while improving water productivity.
Jhyt D. Dorado
Jhyt Dorado is an experienced IT professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, majoring in Web Application Programming, from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology. He is also a licensed civil service professional. Currently, Jhyt is part of the Ostrom Climate Solutions Inc. team, where he applies his expertise in IT to support innovative solutions for climate projects.
Jhyt’s career spans both creative and technical fields. He has managed a T-shirt design and printing business, overseen logistics operations, handled census projects, and developed database-driven systems. Over the past two years, as an IT Specialist at Ostrom Climate Solutions, Jhyt has enjoyed the opportunity to blend creativity with technology to address real-world challenges and optimize operational efficiency.
July Kimberly Anne DG. Rufino
July Rufino is an Admin/Human Resource Assistant at Ostrom Climate Solutions in the Philippines. She supports the administrative department while managing various aspects of human resources, including employee wellness and professional development programs.
July holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Central Luzon State University and is a Registered Psychometrician. With a background in addressing behavioral issues and promoting employee well-being, she aims to apply a deeper understanding of human behavior to enhance administrative processes. Additionally, she has earned a Certified Human Resource Associate certification, reinforcing her expertise in human resources.
Arnold M. Salazar
Arnold Salazar is a valued utility personnel at Ostrom Climate, where he plays a key role in maintaining cleanliness, order, and hygiene across the workplace. His dedication to ensuring a safe and organized environment is crucial to the smooth functioning of daily operations and the overall comfort of the team.
Known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail, Arnold takes pride in his role, consistently contributing to a positive and productive atmosphere within the organization.