Pangasinan: The provincial government of Pangasinan, together with volunteers, has planted over 500,000 tree seedlings in various parts of the province under its Green Canopy Program as of September this year.
According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Ramon Guico III announced in a statement on Friday the intention to plant an additional 500,000 trees in his second term, aiming to reach a total of one million trees. He encouraged public participation in upcoming tree planting events to demonstrate the province's commitment to environmental protection.
The seedlings planted thus far predominantly include mangroves in coastal areas, bamboo, and fruit-bearing trees like calamansi, atis, jackfruit, avocado, and guyabano. The program, initiated by Guico in 2023, seeks to foster co-ownership in environmental protection, raise community awareness, mobilize stakeholders, and encourage community participation in tree planting and conservation efforts, as per the Pangasinan Information and Media Relations Office.
Jose Estrada Jr., chief meteorological officer of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration in Dagupan City, highlighted the critical role of trees in mitigating flash floods, soil erosion, and excessive heat. He pointed out that urbanization and the lack of trees have exacerbated heat indices, adversely affecting local communities.
During the El Ni±o in 2024, Pangasinan experienced heat indices reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius. Trees play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion and managing such extreme weather conditions.
Additionally, Governor Guico addressed concerns regarding the removal of some trees in the capitol grounds in Lingayen town to facilitate area development. He clarified that the capitol complex is not a forest and that the tree relocation is part of a broader infrastructure development plan to prevent future flooding and accommodate new facilities, including an 11-story capital plaza for provincial and national government offices.
The development plan also includes a 320-room internationally branded hotel intended for conventions. Guico emphasized that the new infrastructure aims to attract more tourists and enhance convenience for the public. The capitol complex will feature environmental-friendly, walkable spaces with CCTV cameras, traffic light systems, and monuments commemorating historical events, notably the Second World War, all planned following extensive studies.
