CITY OF MALOLOS — More than 1,700 state workers from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), together with partner agencies, local government units, private organizations, academic institutions, and community volunteers, planted native and fruit-bearing tree seedlings across Central Luzon in observance of Philippine Arbor Day.
The simultaneous tree-growing activities were complemented by the distribution of free tree seedlings to communities and stakeholders, encouraging wider public participation in environmental conservation and greening efforts.
Anchored on this year’s Philippine Arbor Day theme, “Luntiang Bukas,” the regionwide initiative forms part of DENR’s nationwide three-million-sapling drive, a whole-of-nation effort that advances climate resilience, ecosystem recovery, and sustainable forest restoration through collective action.
Tree species planted included narra, molave, agoho, bamboo, banaba, katmon, mabolo, kupang, alibangbang, bignay, cashew, langka, suha, guyabano, tui, and other indigenous and economically important species.
These were planted in selected National Greening Program (NGP) sites and protected areas across the region to rehabilitate degraded landscapes, strengthen forest cover, and provide long-term ecological and community benefits.
Beyond the tree-growing activities, DENR field offices also distributed tree seedlings to local government units, institutions, organizations, and residents, encouraging families and communities to participate in greening efforts beyond designated planting sites.
Observed every June 25 pursuant to Proclamation No. 643 (2004), Philippine Arbor Day promotes nationwide tree growing as a practical and lasting contribution to environmental protection, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable development. (UnliNews Online)
