CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – A total of 200 native tree seedlings have been planted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and partner organizations in Subic, Zambales to strengthen long-term reforestation efforts and support the restoration of degraded forestlands.
Led d by the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office-Olongapo City, the seedlings were planted within a 69-hectare National Greening Program site in Barangay Cawag.
CENRO-Olongapo City chief Edward Sernadilla said the activity forms part of the rehabilitation of an awarded Community-Based Forest Management area through the establishment of indigenous tree species that are well-suited to the local ecosystem.
DENR Region 3 executive director Ralph Pablo emphasized that planting native tree species helps restore biodiversity, improve watershed functions, and enhance the resilience of forest ecosystems while promoting the sustainable management of community-managed forestlands.
Among those who joined the tree-planting were representatives from various public and private organizations, including members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Rotary Club of Olongapo City, Junior Chamber International-Olongapo, Samahang Makakalikasan ng Cawag Community-Based Forest Management Agreement Inc., and personnel from the Subic Municipal Police Station. DENR-3
