ILOILO — Iloilo Province has planted a total of 7,925,778 trees from 2021 to 2026 under the TANUM Iloilo Program, a landmark environmental initiative supporting the province's vision of becoming a Forest Province. The achievement was reported under Executive Order No. 195, Series of 2024.
A Greener Iloilo Takes Root
The massive tree-planting effort forms part of the provincial government's broader strategy to strengthen environmental protection and climate resilience. The program has become a cornerstone of Iloilo's long-term sustainability agenda, mobilizing communities, local government units, and partner agencies across the province.
Data from the 4K for MoRProGRes Dashboard shows the province's current forest cover stands at 18.35 percent, equivalent to 86,943.47 hectares. The provincial goal is to raise this to 33 percent by 2044, while the ecological ideal is 48 percent, or 182,682.01 hectares. These benchmarks guide ongoing reforestation and rehabilitation efforts.
Beyond Trees: A Comprehensive Environmental Strategy
The TANUM program operates alongside other major provincial initiatives. The Upland Development Project has established 139 Integrated Social Forestry sites covering 17,737.76 hectares, benefiting 8,602 families. Components include sloping agricultural land technology, small farm reservoirs, and agroforestry training in cacao, coffee, and tablea production.
Coastal rehabilitation has also advanced significantly. From 2009 to 2024, mangrove reforestation covered 345 hectares across 13 municipalities. Species planted include Bungalon, Bakhaw, and Pagatpat. The project integrates ecotourism, livelihood support, and hydrological rehabilitation for fishing communities.
Waste Management and Water Security
The Provincial Waste Management and Pollution Control Program reports that all 43 LGUs have approved 10-year Solid Waste Management Plans. Waste generation stands at 283 tons per day, with a per capita waste of 0.38 kilograms. More than 1,560 barangay SWM committees have been organized, and 1,314 SWM action plans formulated.
Environmental engineering initiatives include 284 ferrocement harvesting tanks constructed from 2009 to 2022, 25 rainwater harvesting systems, and 19 systems with filtration. These facilities provide water security for schools, barangays, and communities while reducing reliance on unsustainable water sources.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future
The province continues to pursue aggressive reforestation targets through the TANUM program. Forest development zones include timberland, watershed development, resource-based development, and coastal resource areas. Green corridors and public parks are also being expanded within alienable and disposable lands.
Officials encourage residents to monitor progress through the 4K for MoRProGRes Dashboard. The platform provides updates on TANUM Iloilo and other provincial programs. Transparency and community engagement remain central to the initiative's success.
