CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 3 is set to plant and distribute 1.6 million tree seedlings across Central Luzon as it leads the observance of Philippine Arbor Day on Wednesday (June 25), reinforcing efforts to restore ecosystems, protect watersheds, and strengthen the region’s resilience against climate change.
Simultaneous tree-growing activities will be conducted in identified sites throughout the region in partnership with local government units, national government agencies, private organizations, academic institutions, people’s organizations, and community volunteers.
The initiative forms part of the DENR’s continuing efforts to expand forest cover, rehabilitate degraded lands, enhance biodiversity, and improve the condition of critical watersheds that provide water for agriculture, industries, and households.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the annual Arbor Day celebration is a reminder that environmental protection requires collective action and long-term commitment from all sectors of society.
“Every tree planted today is an investment in the future of Central Luzon. Beyond increasing forest cover, these trees will help secure our watersheds, protect biodiversity, improve air quality, reduce the impacts of flooding and soil erosion, and strengthen our communities against the growing threats posed by climate change,” Pablo said.
He added the activity builds on the agency’s sustained forest restoration efforts in Central Luzon under the Enhanced National Greening Program, which have already resulted in the planting of more than 88.4 million seedlings, and the establishment and reforestation of over 138,000 hectares of denuded and degraded lands forest plantations across the region since its implementation in 2011.
According to Pablo, the large-scale tree-growing effort is expected to generate long-term environmental benefits by enhancing carbon sequestration, improving water availability, restoring wildlife habitats, and increasing the capacity of ecosystems to withstand extreme weather events.
“Tree growing is among the simplest yet most effective ways that citizens can contribute to environmental protection. Through the support of our partners and communities, we hope to instill a stronger sense of environmental stewardship and encourage more people to take an active role in conserving our natural resources,” he added.
Philippine Arbor Day is observed annually pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 643, which institutionalizes tree planting as a nationwide activity and promotes environmental awareness and responsibility among Filipinos.
The DENR urges the public to participate in greening initiatives beyond Arbor Day and support efforts to build healthier forests, protected watersheds, cleaner waterways, and more resilient communities across Central Luzon. (UnliNews Online)
