Lapu-Lapu prepares for nationwide tree planting

CEBU, Philippines - The Lapu-Lapu City council has approved a resolution directing all barangay captains to support the planting of trees on June 25 dubbed as Billion Tree Program of the Bureau of Corrections Love Foundation and the Department of Interior and Local Government.

The planting of trees will be held on June 25.

Councilor Alexander Gestopa, Jr., chairman of the city council

committee on environment, said students and the business sector and the different non-governmental organizations have been asked to support the program.

A memorandum circular issued by DILG Secretary Jesse M. Robredo states that to combat global, greenhouse gas emissions should be reduced and and/or absorb gases already in the atmosphere if every nation planted billions of trees.

"This is what the Billion Trees - a Philippine Imperative Program seeks to accomplish," Robredo said in his memo.

To fast track the program, DILG rallied the support of the country's 42,025 barangays in the planting of a billion trees.

Robredo has called on all barangay officials to produce at least 25,000 seedlings ready for the synchronized planting which will coincide with the annual celebration of Philippine Arbor Day on June 25.

In the same directive, DILG Secretary also advised the sangguniang barangays to approve an appropriate ordinance directing all homeowners and building owners to plant trees in their own backyard or at the frontage of their houses or buildings to combat global warming.

He likewise asked the provincial governors and city and municipal mayors to ensure and provide the necessary assistance to their barangays. (FREEMAN)