Photo By: BCDA Group
CAPAS, Tarlac — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) officially launched its 2026 tree-planting program with the planting of 223 Philippine native tree saplings at the foothills of Mt. Susung Dalaga in Barangay Aranguren, Capas, Tarlac, marking the start of its campaign to plant 2,000 trees across New Clark City throughout July and August.
The initiative, dubbed “Thousand Trees for One Clark,” gathered BCDA employees led by Officer-in-Charge Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Engr. Mark P. Torres, together with representatives from the local government of Capas, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), and members of the Aeta community.
Joining the activity were Executive Assistant for External Affairs Marie Tanglao Mason from the Office of the Mayor of Capas, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Gener Tanhueco, and members of the Aeta community led by Josie Dela Cruz Yamson, secretary of the Sitio Binyayan Tribal Council.
Photo By: BCDA Group
The volunteers planted 223 saplings of Philippine native tree species, including narra, molave, bani, banaba, tibig, and alagao. These indigenous species were selected for their ecological value and their role in restoring forest cover, enhancing biodiversity, and strengthening the area’s natural ecosystem.
The activity serves as the opening phase of BCDA’s broader environmental campaign, which aims to plant a total of 2,000 native trees during the rainy season. Conducting the initiative in July and August is expected to improve the survival rate and healthy growth of the newly planted saplings.
Photo By: BCDA Group
The tree-planting activity reflects BCDA’s continuing commitment to environmental sustainability as it advances the development of smart, resilient, and future-ready cities. Through partnerships with local government units, Indigenous Peoples, and community stakeholders, BCDA seeks to ensure that urban development is balanced with the protection and restoration of the country’s natural resources.
As New Clark City continues to grow as a model of sustainable development, BCDA remains committed to integrating environmental stewardship into its infrastructure and community-building initiatives, reinforcing its vision of creating greener and more climate-resilient communities for future generations.