Posdo, Maggangan, Guinaoang, Mankayan, Benguet – In a significant step towards environmental sustainability, the Supreme Secondary Learners Government (SSLG) of Guinaoang National High School, in collaboration with Crescent Mining & Development Corporation (CMDC), celebrated Philippine Arbor Day with a tree planting activity on June 25, 2024. The event, held in Posdo, Maggangan, saw the planting of 300 Benguet Pine trees, reinforcing the importance of reforestation and environmental stewardship.
The activity, aptly named “Seeds of Hope,” underscores the observance of Philippine Arbor Day as mandated by Proclamation No. 643, which declares June 25 as a day dedicated to tree planting nationwide. The initiative began with an opening program at the CMDC Nursery, where Engr. Ronnie B. Siapno, President of CMDC, welcomed and thanked the participants. Siapno emphasized the necessity of tree planting and reiterated CMDC’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community partnership.
Maxinne P. Bomowey, SSLG President, expressed gratitude to the partner stakeholders and called for the continued support of the “Seeds of Hope” project and other community initiatives. “We need to sustain this project and elevate our community, especially the youth,” Bomowey remarked.
Wilbert B. Wanas, SSLG Adviser, provided a brief history of the “Seeds of Hope” project, humorously noting the long-term benefits of tree planting. He stressed the importance of collaboration and partnership in the success of any initiative.
Bernard Okubo, Environment Officer of CMDC, conducted an orientation on proper tree planting techniques and tree care, ensuring that participants were well-prepared to contribute to the reforestation effort.
The event was attended by a diverse group of participants, including personnel from the Benguet 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company led by Force Commander PLTCOL Peter Conrad D. Bangsoy, members of the Maggangan Neighborhood Association headed by President Belinda Matias, KKDAT – Guinaoang, Barangay LGU officials led by Punong Barangay Roberto Bandao and represented by Hon. Balmer Ngateg, and staff from Guinaoang National High School.
The “Seeds of Hope” initiative serves as a reminder of the crucial role that tree planting plays in combating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring a healthier environment for future generations. The collaboration between educational institutions, local communities, and private corporations like CMDC highlights the power of united efforts in making a lasting impact on the environment. By Wilbert B. Wanas