Las Piñas creates ‘green’ council

The Las Piñas City government has created a “council on the environment and greenbelt area” that will oversee the “greening” of the city through the planting of trees in identified lots.

The council’s task is to ensure the sustainability of initiatives of keeping Las Piñas a clean, green and livable city. Mel Aguilar, the mayor’s wife, chairs the Council.

Mayor Vergel Aguilar said close to 6,000 trees of various species are being planted throughout the city. About 1,500 Ficus benjamina trees – a type of balete – are being planted along the Alabang-Zapote Road.

The Ficus species, studies showed, is easy to maintain and effective in reducing air pollution.

Homeowners’ associations, in close coordination with their barangay officials, also planted fruit-bearing trees and vegetables in vacant lots to augment the food supply of residents.

Business establishments also contributed to greening the city by putting Palmera plants in flowerpots in their immediate vicinities.

Aguilar likewise expressed hope that all other commercial areas would participate in the greening activity before the end of this month.

He urged those involved in tree planting, particularly the barangay officials, community leaders and volunteers in the neighborhood to nurture every tree planted not just to green the city but minimize pollution to ensure the health and safety of the people. – Rhodina Villanueva