Senator Calls for Active Tree Planting Efforts
MANILA, Philippines – As the nation marks Arbor Day, Senator Loren Legarda urges all Filipinos to engage actively in environmental stewardship through tree planting efforts and community green initiatives. She emphasizes that every tree planted today is a beacon of hope for a sustainable future.
“Every tree that we plant today is a seedling of hope for the future. We must embrace this shared advocacy to pursue environmental sustainability for ourselves, for our children, and for the succeeding generations,” Legarda stated, highlighting her long-standing commitment to environmental causes since her Senate debut in 1998.
Arbor Day and Environmental Collaboration
Celebrated annually on June 25 under Proclamation No. 643, Arbor Day promotes a nationwide movement to plant trees. Senator Legarda stressed that collaboration among national and local governments, the private sector, and civil groups is crucial for restoring degraded ecosystems, conserving natural resources, and tackling the climate crisis.
“Since I was young, I’ve found joy and peace in planting trees. To this day, as a backyard farmer, it remains more than a hobby; it’s a responsibility I carry with deep conviction as a legislator,” she shared.
Legislation for Sustainable Forestry and Biodiversity
Legarda, a staunch advocate for ecological resilience, continues to champion laws that promote sustainable land use, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation. Among the bills she authored are Senate Bill No. 2135, empowering barangays to actively protect their environment, and Senate Bill No. 2320, which aims to strengthen sustainable forest management nationwide.
The senator highlighted that effective reforestation requires more than planting numbers; it demands planting the right native trees in suitable locations and ensuring their growth.
Importance of Native Trees in Ecosystem Recovery
“Native trees, in particular, play a vital role in restoring our forests and rebuilding the health of our ecosystems. These species are naturally adapted to the Philippine climate and soil. They support local biodiversity, protect watersheds, and are more resilient during disasters and shifting weather patterns,” Legarda explained.
She added, “Let Arbor Day inspire us that what we plant and nurture at present shapes the future we will harvest.”
Building a Culture of Environmental Responsibility
Senator Legarda encouraged everyone to unite in tree planting, protect native and endemic species, and foster a strong culture of environmental awareness across the country.
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