RAFI launches book on Visayan trees

CEBU, Philippines - Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) will launch Manual on Native Trees in the Visayas on July 24 at 2 p.m. at the Plenary Hall of Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center, Cebu City.

Manual of Native Trees in the Visayas is a compilation of 101 native trees found in the Visayas.

The featured native trees are presented alphabetically by family with detailed photos and descriptions that include their official names, scientific names, local names, methods of propagation and uses.

Readers are provided with a glossary to help them understand technical words, as well as practical tips on planting and taking care of seedlings.

Through this reference material, RAFI hopes to raise awareness on and appreciation of the region’s indigenous tree species and promote efforts towards preserving our natural forest heritage and mobilize people to plant and nurture their own native trees.

The publication was conceptualized to contribute to the achievement of Goal 7 of the Millennium Development Goals, which is to ensure environmental sustainability by reversing the loss of environmental resources.

Copies of the book are sold for Php 2,500 each at the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center, 35 Lopez Jaena St., Cebu City.

GREENIN Philippines Program is a program under the Integrated Development focus area of RAFI, addressing the foundations needed to develop successful communities. Its other focus areas include Micro-finance & Entrepreneurship, Culture & Heritage, Leadership & Citizenship, and Education.

For more information about the book and the GREENIN Philippines Program, please contact 418-7234 loc. 515 and look for Noel Fornolles, or visit www.rafi.org.ph/greenin-philippines or  www.facebook.com/rafi.org.ph, or follow @rafiorgph on Twitter. (FREEMAN)