ππππ ππ πππ π πππππππ, πππ¦π©ππ§π π β A total of 1,000 indigenous tree seedlings now stand in Sitio Ulpoy, Barangay Amungan, Iba, Zambales, following a collaborative reforestation effort led by the Philippine Red CrossβZambales Chapter and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), helping strengthen natural defenses against flooding, soil erosion, and the increasing impacts of climate change.
The initiative, implemented by the DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Masinloc in observance of National Disaster Resilience Month, rehabilitated a 14.37-hectare site under the graduated National Greening Program (NGP), reinforcing the role of forest restoration in building more resilient communities.
A total of 500 narra and 500 agoho seedlings were planted through two tree-growing activities participated in by 108 volunteers from the Philippine Red Cross, DENR, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), indigenous peoples, and other local partners.
CENRO Masinloc Chief Donaver Guevarra said the activity was carried out in two phases. The initial planting on July 18 saw 18 volunteers plant the first 100 narra seedlings despite inclement weather. A second tree-growing activity on July 25 mobilized 90 volunteers who planted an additional 900 seedlings, consisting of 500 agoho and 400 narra.
Guevarra added that the planting materials were sourced from replacement seedlings under a Special Tree Cutting Earth-balling Permit (STCEP), demonstrating how environmental compliance initiatives can directly support forest restoration efforts under the graduated National Greening Program while encouraging broader community participation in environmental conservation.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the initiative demonstrates that investing in forests is equally an investment in public safety and community resilience.
βDisaster resilience begins long before calamities occur. By restoring our forests today, we are reducing future risks while securing cleaner water, healthier ecosystems, and a safer environment for our communities. This partnership reflects how collective action can create lasting solutions to the challenges posed by climate change,β Pablo said.
The activity brought together the Philippine Red CrossβZambales Chapter, DENR, BFP, PNP, indigenous peoples, and local volunteers, highlighting the importance of multi-sectoral partnerships in advancing forest restoration and strengthening community resilience.
The initiative forms part of DENRβs continuing efforts to strengthen forest restoration through the National Greening Program, demonstrating how collaboration among government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and local communities can generate lasting environmental gains while advancing climate resilience and sustainable development.
