Photo By: DENR Central Luzon
SUBIC, Zambales — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in partnership with various public and private organizations, reinforced its commitment to forest restoration through a tree-planting activity that saw the planting of 200 native tree seedlings in Barangay Cawag, Subic, Zambales.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Olongapo City, was conducted within a 69-hectare National Greening Program (NGP) site as part of ongoing efforts to rehabilitate degraded forestlands and strengthen long-term environmental conservation.
Photo By: DENR Central Luzon
According to CENRO Olongapo City Head Edward Sernadilla, the activity supports the rehabilitation of an awarded Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) area by establishing indigenous tree species that are naturally adapted to the local environment. He noted that the use of native species helps ensure higher survival rates while restoring the ecological integrity of the forest.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo underscored the importance of planting indigenous trees in sustaining healthy ecosystems. He said native species play a vital role in restoring biodiversity, improving watershed functions, and increasing the resilience of forests against the impacts of climate change. He added that such initiatives also promote the sustainable management of community-managed forestlands through the active participation of local stakeholders.
The tree-planting activity gathered volunteers from several organizations, including the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Rotary Club of Olongapo City, Junior Chamber International–Olongapo, Samahang Makakalikasan ng Cawag Community-Based Forest Management Agreement Inc., and the Philippine National Police–Subic.
The DENR said collaborative environmental initiatives such as this continue to demonstrate the importance of partnerships in protecting natural resources and advancing the country’s reforestation and climate resilience goals.