Cebu — The spirit of environmental stewardship was on full display across Central Visayas as 1,139 volunteers gathered on June 25, 2026, to participate in a massive simultaneous tree-planting drive in honor of Philippine Arbor Day. Under the theme "Green, Clean and Climate-Ready Communities," this unified effort saw participants from government agencies, local government units (LGUs), communities, and the private sector plant a total of 7,460 seedlings across 5.72 hectares. From the mountainous terrain of Barangay Nug-as in Alcoy to the coastal areas of Maribojoc, Bohol, this initiative underscores a growing regional commitment to restoring forest landscapes and fortifying the region against climate-induced disasters. By choosing a mix of native and fruit-bearing tree species, the volunteers have laid the groundwork for vital watershed protection and long-term ecosystem restoration.
A Regional Commitment to Restoration
The success of this year’s Arbor Day project lies in its strategic, multi-site approach, which targeted high-impact areas such as Barangay Lusaran in Cebu City and Barangay Punta Cruz in Bohol. DENR Regional Executive Director Laudemir S. Salac underscored that the true significance of the event extends far beyond the impressive number of seedlings planted. He framed the day as a powerful reminder that environmental protection is a shared, non-negotiable responsibility among all citizens. By focusing on native biodiversity, the initiative aims to provide essential carbon sequestration and habitat restoration that will serve as a living legacy for future generations.
Building Partnerships for Long-Term Success
Moving beyond a single day of action, the DENR has reinforced its commitment to providing the technical assistance, quality materials, and ongoing collaboration necessary to ensure these trees survive and flourish. Director Salac emphasized that lasting success is only achieved through strong partnerships between the DENR and local government units, ensuring that these reforestation efforts align with broader regional environmental goals. As these seedlings take root across the five designated planting sites, they will serve as symbols of a united commitment to protecting the region’s natural heritage. This collaborative model marks a maturation in how Central Visayas approaches reforestation, prioritizing sustained monitoring and community involvement to build a truly sustainable future.
