2M native, indigenous seedlings for DENR greening program

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources 7 will highlight this year’s celebration of Environment Month with the launch of the National Greening Program, a component of which is the planting and growing of 2.816 million seedlings in Central Visayas.

Region 7 intends to plant native and indigenous species of trees in 5,632 hectares.

DENR 7 Director Maximo Dichoso said the launch of the National Greening Program is in consonance with the United Nations declaration of the International Year of Forests. The program aims to help battle the effects of climate change because forests release oxygen into the atmosphere while storing carbon dioxide.

Dichoso said this year’s theme, “Forests: Nature at your service” aptly captures the importance of forests as they cover one third of the earth’s land mass, performing vital functions and services around the world.   

DENR information officer Eddie Llamedo said the Regional NGP launch on June 25 in Barangay Jaclupan, Talisay City will be in partnership with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., Metro Cebu Water District and various national government agencies.

On the same day, RAFI will also hold its Run to Plant and Green in Philippines Program.

On June 21, a mangrove tree planting and coastal clean up in Olango Island will be conducted, which will be followed by a two-day roadside emission and CFC testing in strategic streets in Metro Cebu on June 22 and 23. The day after, a clean-up activity will be undertaken at the Butuanon river.

The Apo Cement Corporation will also open its premises for a mine tour on June 23. The next day, the NGP implementation plan will be presented before the Regional Development Council.

On June 28 and 29, the Environmental Management Bureau 7 will host an Environmental Congress, which will end with the coronation of the Mutya ng Kalikasan at the Radisson Blu Hotel.

By month’s end on June 30, DENR will award its outstanding officials and employees and will recognize its retirees.  (FREEMAN)