DAVAO — The City Government of Digos continued its environmental commitment on September 26, 2026, planting 750 tree seedlings at Busay Napan in Barangay Goma. The activity is part of the Weekly Tree Planting Program under the City Greening Program, reinforcing the city's dedication to sustainable development and watershed protection.
A Weekly Commitment to Greening
Every Saturday, Digos City transforms into a hub of environmental action. The Weekly Tree Planting Activity has become a consistent platform for restoring the city's natural landscapes. Volunteers, local officials, and community members gather to plant seedlings, nurturing them for future generations.
The program reflects the environmental legacy of Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas. His administration emphasizes that service to the community extends beyond infrastructure to include the stewardship of natural resources. The regular planting schedule ensures that reforestation is not a one-time event but a sustained effort.
Why Barangay Goma Matters
Barangay Goma sits along the slopes of Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines. This location makes it a critical watershed catchment area for Davao del Sur. The slopes act as a natural reservoir, recharging aquifers that supply water for agriculture, industry, and households across the region.
Reforesting these areas is essential for maintaining a stable freshwater supply. Tree roots help infiltrate rainwater into the ground, replenishing underground water sources. Without this natural process, the region could face water shortages, especially during dry seasons.
The protection of watersheds also supports local agriculture. Davao del Sur relies heavily on farming, and healthy forests prevent silt from clogging irrigation canals. This ensures that water flows reliably to rice fields and vegetable farms, sustaining food production and rural livelihoods.
Protecting the Mt. Apo Watershed
The high-elevation terrain around Barangay Goma is vulnerable to heavy monsoon rains. Without adequate tree cover, topsoil erodes easily, leading to flash floods and landslides that threaten downstream communities. The seedlings planted on September 26 will eventually stabilize the soil and slow surface runoff.
These trees also protect the biodiversity of Mount Apo's protected forest zones. By restoring degraded forest corridors, the planting activity creates habitats for endemic species, including the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. Each seedling contributes to a healthier, more resilient ecosystem.
Community Action for Climate Resilience
Beyond watershed protection, the tree planting initiative strengthens climate resilience. Forests absorb carbon dioxide, regulate local microclimates, and reduce the risk of extreme weather events. The weekly activity engages residents in hands-on environmental stewardship, fostering a culture of care for the planet.
The City Government of Digos encourages everyone to participate. Every Saturday is treated as both Service Day and Arbor Day, a reminder that collective action can create lasting change. Together, the community is planting the seeds for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future.
