Bulacan: A total of 1,000 native tree seedlings were planted in a major government-led reforestation drive in Do±a Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan on Thursday in observance of National Arbor Day.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Provincial Public Affairs Office (PPAO) stated that the reforestation drive took place in a mountainous part of Sitio Payapa in Barangay Camachin. Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando emphasized that each tree planted symbolizes a shared responsibility to protect the natural heritage and ensure a livable environment for future generations.

The activity was a collaborative effort involving the Bulacan Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), Board Member for Indigenous Peoples Liberato Sembrano, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Do±a Remedios Trinidad, Barangay Camachin officials, and tribal leaders from the Remontado community. The initiative, themed "Kalikasan ay Buhay: Ating Pangalagaan, Ating Pagyamanin" (Nature is Life: Let's Take Care of it and Enrich it), aimed to combat climate change and restore degraded forestlands.

Lawyer Julius Victor Degala, BENRO head, highlighted the future benefits of reforestation efforts, noting that the trees will eventually provide shelter, prevent flooding, and protect the environment. PPAO mentioned that beyond environmental benefits, the activity aimed to raise public awareness, mobilize youth and community participation, and strengthen ties with Indigenous peoples and local leaders.

Arbor Day is celebrated in the Philippines every June 25 pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 643 and Republic Act 10176 or the Arbor Day Act of 2012, encouraging citizens across all sectors of society to participate in tree-planting and forest conservation efforts. Globally, Arbor Day is recognized for the value of trees in people's lives and communities.