MASINLOC, Zambales (PIA) — The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Masinloc Arboretum in Zambales strengthens efforts to preserve indigenous tree species and promote biodiversity conservation.
The 7,712-square-meter facility of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) showcases more than 300 seedlings of native trees, including almaciga, agoho, bitaog, palosapis, molave, dao, kalantas, narra, ipil, Mindoro pine, ilang-ilang, lapnisan, red nato, kalumpit, arangen, banaba, toog, tindalo, tuai, taluto, and white lauan.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the arboretum serves as more than a repository of native tree species, describing it as a “living classroom” where people can learn, appreciate, and connect with nature.
He added that the facility helps deepen public understanding of the importance of biodiversity conservation and environmental protection.
As a demonstration site for environmental education, the arboretum allows students, researchers, visitors, and other stakeholders to learn about native tree species and their ecological value.
It also highlights the role of trees in climate change mitigation, watershed protection, and biodiversity conservation.
CENRO Masinloc Chief Donaver Guevarra underscored the facility’s role in advancing native tree conservation efforts and encouraging community participation in environmental stewardship.
“The establishment of the CENRO Masinloc Arboretum reflects our commitment to conserving native tree species and strengthening environmental awareness among present and future generations. Through this initiative, we hope to inspire greater appreciation for our forests and encourage active participation in environmental conservation efforts,” Guevarra said.
The arboretum supports the environmental priorities of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which include biodiversity conservation, reforestation, and sustainable natural resource management. (CLJD/MAECR, PIA Region 3-Zambales)
