DENR marks environment day with coastal cleanups

CEBU, Philippines - In observance of the World Environment Day, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-7 is set to plant more mangroves and conduct a coastal cleanup today at Inoburan, Naga City.

A mangrove planting and coastal cleanup activity will also be done simultaneously in 14 coastal areas in Central Visayas.

DENR-7 Regional Technical Director Forest Management Services Eduardo Inting said that since the country is experiencing climate change, everyone should do their part in countering its effect.

“I’m inviting everyone to do their responsibility in taking care of the trees..kay lain na ang dagan sa panahon, be responsible anytime,” he said.

In line with the National Greening Program, DENR-7 has produced 8,773,201 seedlings ready for planting as of May 23.

The figure covers around 79 percent of the overall annual target of the region which is around 11 million seedlings for the year 2014. DENR-7 will start planting these seedlings when the wet season starts.

Of the total accomplishment, Cebu comes first with 63 percent of its target of 3,987,600 seedlings while Bohol has 2,198,453 or 80 percent of its target of 2,750,500 seedlings. Negros Oriental has 4,034,725 seedlings or 95 percent of its target of 4,235,600 seedlings. Siquijor has accomplished 31 percent or 29,500 seedlings out of the 96, 500 seedlings.

DENR-7 Regional Executive Director Isabelo Montejo said that the “good” performance in seedling production in Central Visayas can be attributed to the agency’s commitment to raise quality seedlings.

“Aside from achieving our targets with regard seedlings production, we have also ensured the production of quality seedlings which shall be used to supply our various tree planting and growing program here in the region,” Montejo added.

The department has allocated P250 million for the NGP project of the region targeted at greening some 1.5 million hectares. — (FREEMAN)