Ang Pahayagan

PAMPANGA — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 3 will plant and distribute 1.6 million tree seedlings across Central Luzon as part of the observance of Philippine Arbor Day on June 25.

The activity will involve simultaneous tree-growing initiatives in various sites throughout the region in partnership with local government units, national government agencies, private organizations, academic institutions, people’s organizations, and community volunteers.

According to DENR Region 3, the initiative aims to restore ecosystems, protect watersheds, expand forest cover, rehabilitate degraded lands, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen the region’s resilience to climate change.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the annual Arbor Day celebration highlights the importance of collective action in environmental protection.

“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.

The tree-growing campaign forms part of the DENR’s continuing forest restoration efforts under the Enhanced National Greening Program.

Pablo said the program has 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 and forest plantations across Central Luzon since its implementation in 2011.

He added that the large-scale activity is expected to provide long-term environmental benefits, including increased carbon sequestration, improved water availability, restored wildlife habitats, and enhanced ecosystem resilience against 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,” Pablo said.

Philippine Arbor Day is observed annually under Presidential Proclamation No. 643, which institutionalizes tree planting as a nationwide activity and promotes environmental awareness and responsibility among Filipinos.

The DENR also encouraged the public to participate in greening initiatives beyond Arbor Day to help build healthier forests, protected watersheds, cleaner waterways, and more resilient communities across Central Luzon.