Youth in detention help the environment

MANILA, Philippines - The PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) recently held a tree planting day involving close to 50 of its members, aged 16 to 23, from the Regional Rehabilitation Center for the Youth (RRCY) in Davao City. 

The affair, dubbed as “Living Clean and Green: A Tree Planting and Reforestation Project,” was held at the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) and was led by PEF executive director Dennis Salvador, PSF director Anthony Pangilinan and barangay captain Mario Reta from Brgy. Sasa. Aside from the tree planting, there were games, a walking tour, sketching and drawing sessions courtesy of artist Fernando Sena. 

All in the presence of their house parents, social workers from DSWD-RRCY XI and members of the police task force, the youth in detention took part in helping the environment.  It was the first time for these kids to be brought out of the detention facility to give back to the community. 

Made possible with the support of partners such as the Philippine Eagle Foundation, the Groove Unlimited Dance Community, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, The Apo View Hotel, Islands Souvenirs, and Smart Communications, the memorable day concluded with Sena presenting the RRCY a mural, certificate awarding, more games and free time swimming.