CITY OF MALOLOS – The Provincial Government of Bulacan, led by Governor Daniel R. Fernando through the Bulacan Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), spearheaded a tree-planting activity in Brgy. Bangkal in this city on to combat climate change and celebrate Philippine Arbor Day 2026 on Thursday.
A total of 200 fruit-bearing seedlings were planted during the activity through the collective efforts of Provincial Administrator Antonia V. Constantino, Brgy. Bangkal SK President Jayson Pascual, BENRO Department Head Atty. Julius Victor C. Degala, Family Peace Association Youth Bulacan Chapter President Harry B. Yambao, and selected Grade 8 students from Cong. Teodulo C. Natividad High School, demonstrating a united commitment to environmental conservation and a greener future.The fruit-bearing seedlings were part of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 3’s 1.6 million tree seedlings distributed across Central Luzon in observance of Philippine Arbor Day, reinforcing efforts to restore ecosystems, protect watersheds, and strengthen the region’s resilience against climate change.
Simultaneous tree-growing activities were conducted in identified sites throughout the region in partnership with local government units, national government agencies, private organizations, academic institutions, people’s organizations, and community volunteers.
This initiative also reflects one of the key priorities under Fernando’s 10-point agenda which is Resilient Nature and Clean Environment.
Emphasizing the importance of preserving nature, Fernando, represented by James Santos, underscored that the environment serves as a reflection of the kind of future that is being built for the next generation.
“Hindi po dapat magtapos ang araw natin sa bulwagang ito, hindi lang dapat ito matapos sa pagtatanim ng puno. Isabuhay po natin ito,” Fernando said.
The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration among local government units, civil organizations, educational institutions, and private sectors to spread awareness about environmental conservation and sustainable practices while achieving long-term environmental sustainability.
As Bulacan continues to pursue balances development, the PGB remains steadfast in ensuring that economic progress goes hand in hand with ecological preservation.Meanwhile, the DENR Region 3 distribution of 1.6 million seedlings initiative forms part of the agencies’ continuing efforts to expand forest cover, rehabilitate degraded lands, enhance biodiversity, and improve the condition of critical watersheds that provide water for agriculture, industries, and households.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the annual Arbor Day celebration is a reminder that environmental protection requires collective action and long-term commitment from all sectors of society.
“Every tree planted today is an investment in the future of Central Luzon. Beyond increasing forest cover, these trees will help secure our watersheds, protect biodiversity, improve air quality, reduce the impacts of flooding and soil erosion, and strengthen our communities against the growing threats posed by climate change,” Pablo said.
He added the activity builds on the agency’s sustained forest restoration efforts in Central Luzon under the Enhanced National Greening Program, which have already resulted in the planting of more than 88.4 million seedlings, and the establishment and reforestation of over 138,000 hectares of denuded and degraded lands forest plantations across the region since its implementation in 2011.
According to Pablo, the large-scale tree-growing effort is expected to generate long-term environmental benefits by enhancing carbon sequestration, improving water availability, restoring wildlife habitats, and increasing the capacity of ecosystems to withstand extreme weather events.
“Tree growing is among the simplest yet most effective ways that citizens can contribute to environmental protection. Through the support of our partners and communities, we hope to instill a stronger sense of environmental stewardship and encourage more people to take an active role in conserving our natural resources,” he added.
Philippine Arbor Day is observed annually pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 643, which institutionalizes tree planting as a nationwide activity and promotes environmental awareness and responsibility among Filipinos.
