GMA declares June 25 Arbor Day

President Arroyo has institutionalized "every 25th of June as Philippines Arbor Day that shall be observed throughout the nation by planting trees and ornamental plants and other forms of relevant activities."

This is contained in Proclamation No. 643 that amended Proclamation No. 396 of June 2, 2003. Proclamation No. 396 enjoined the "active participation of all government agencies, including government-owned and controlled corporations, private sector, schools, civil society groups and the citizenry in tree planting activity and declaring June 25, 2003 as Philippines Arbor Day."

Considered in Proclamation 643, signed by Executive Secretary Alberto Romulo last June 9 for the President, are:

• The necessity to promote a healthier ecosystem for the people through the rehabilitation and regreening of the environment.

• The need to sustain the wide support and success gained from the implementation of Proclamation No. 396, and to institutionalize Philippines Arbor Day.

• Planting more trees will not only help reforest denuded areas but also make the entire country a greener and healthier place to live in.

• The necessity to declare a day each year for conducting actual tree planting and foster partnership and environmental stewardship among various sectors of society.

All other provisions of Proclamation No. 396 not inconsistent with No. 643 shall remain valid and operative.