Philippines endemic trees used to reforest New Clark City

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — More that 500 trees endemic to the Philippines have been used to reforest a one-hectare property in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, according to the state-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority.

The tree-planting activity brought the BCDA closer to its goal of planting 1,000 trees by yearend, which is part of its commitment to sustainable urban development.

Under the initiative, the BCDA and its partners in the public and private sectors have planted a total of 811 native and endemic trees since January.

BCDA president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang led employees during the planting of native tree species, including Amugis, Banaba, Dao, Kamagong and Salingogon along One Clark Boulevard on July 10.

The species were carefully selected due to their capacity to thrive in the region’s environment while enhancing biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, stabilizing land near rivers and acting as natural carbon sinks.

“This initiative underscores our dedication to building infrastructure that nurtures both progress and the environment. It’s about creating spaces that foster well-being, recreation and connection with nature,” Bingcang said.