DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — A total of 300 seedlings took root at the Bagsakan Terminal in Sitio Power, Barangay Tres de Mayo, on August 1, 2026, as more than 400 volunteers joined the City Government of Digos for its weekly tree‑planting activity. The event is part of Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas’ Saturday Service Day initiative, which has now set its sights on an ambitious two‑million‑tree target.
A Green Legacy in the Making
The Saturday tree‑planting tradition stems from Digos’ One‑Million Trees Program, launched in 2020 and successfully completed ahead of schedule. That milestone inspired the new goal of planting two million trees across the city. Mayor Cagas personally joined the volunteers, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support and reaffirming the city’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The weekly activity brings together employees from the city government, national agencies, private institutions, and community organizations. This broad coalition reflects a shared belief that environmental protection is a collective responsibility. The Bagsakan Terminal site was chosen to maximize the ecological benefit of greening a busy public space.
Understanding Saturday Service Day
For residents and visitors unfamiliar with the program, Saturday Service Day is a weekly civic initiative that mobilizes citizens to participate in public service activities, including tree planting, cleanup drives, and community outreach. It aims to strengthen volunteerism and build a culture of proactive environmental care among Digoseños.
Mayor Cagas emphasized that planting trees is about more than beautification; it is a direct response to climate change. Each seedling contributes to carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, and improved air quality. The mayor also noted that the initiative helps foster a sense of ownership and pride in the city’s natural resources.
From One Million to Two Million
The original One‑Million Trees Program, launched four years ago, successfully reached its target through sustained weekly efforts. Building on that momentum, the city is now aiming for two million trees, with the goal of making Digos City a regional model for urban forestry. The tree species planted include native and fruit‑bearing varieties, ensuring long‑term ecological and livelihood benefits for communities.
By transforming idle lots and public areas into green spaces, the city is also enhancing its appeal as a livable destination. The tree‑planting activities complement Digos’ broader push for sustainable tourism, where visitors can experience a city that actively protects its environment. The program demonstrates that even a small weekly gathering can produce large‑scale, lasting change.
A Community‑Driven Movement
The success of the program lies in the consistency of its volunteers. Hundreds of Digoseños give up part of their Saturday mornings each week to dig, plant, and water trees. This sustained volunteerism has created a strong sense of community ownership over the city’s green spaces. The city government provides seedlings, tools, and technical guidance, while volunteers contribute their labor and commitment.
The August 1 activity at the Bagsakan Terminal added 300 more trees to the city’s growing tally. As Digos City pushes toward its two‑million target, the weekly tree‑planting tradition continues to serve as both an environmental and social anchor for the community.
