DENR-7 is set for nationwide launch of Green Philippine Highway project

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Region 7 said it is all set to take part in the simultaneous tree-planting activities nationwide for the launching of the Green Philippine Highway project on August 25.

DENR Secretary Angelo Reyes will lead in the project launching, of which government agencies, non-government groups and other sectors would plant trees simultaneously along identified areas around the country.

The Green Philippine Highways project has been designed to strengthen the concern of all sectors for the country's environment through rehabilitation of specified areas with trees.

The core message of this project is: "Do more than just belong, Participate; Do more than just care, Help; Do more than just believe, Practice; Do more than just dream, Work."

DENR-7 regional director Celso Loriega said that sectors in the region would plant trees along the highway shoulders from the boundary between Mabinay in Negros Oriental and Cabancalan in Negros Occidental to Tambobo Bay at Siaton in Negros Oriental, via Dumaguete City.

Provincial environment officer Richard Abella of Cebu also said his office has identified the tree-planting sites in the highway spanning Minglanilla, Sibonga, Santander and Argao, and from Naga Road to some parts of Toledo City.

DENR officials said the department would give technical support to the project, including the identification and preparation of planting sites; provision of planting materials; ensuring suitable plant species; coordination with the Public Works and Highways and government firms in transporting seedlings and participants.

Loriega said a certificate of tree stewardship would be awarded to a particular sponsor that would undertake the planting, care and maintenance of trees in a specific section of the highway for a minimum period of three years.

A standard billboard or placard acknowledging that particular sponsor would also be set up on the area that such sponsor has adopted for tree stewardship. - Jasmin R. Uy