The activity spearheaded by the city government in partnership with private organizations was also joined by the Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine National Police and other government agencies, local officials, and residents.

 

In his message, Mayor Joseph Tan discussed the plans of the city government to make the site as an ecotourism area. He also explained the benefits of bamboos for climate change mitigation, soil erosion control, flood control, food and livelihood for the community.

 

DENR Regional Executive Director Gwendolyn Bambalan lauded the city government for its bamboo development program which started as early as 2016. She said the initiative is supportive of the government’s aim to rehabilitate the Cagayan River and tributaries.

 

"As we intensify the management of our watersheds including riverbanks, the DENR has identified major rivers suitable for planting of bamboos," Director Bambalan said explaining the key result areas of Executive Order 120.

 

The Order is aimed at strengthening rehabilitation and recovery efforts in typhoon-hit areas through the creation of the Build Back Better Task Force.

 

She added under the National Greening Program, the region has allocated more than 600 hectares for bamboo plantation.

 

The environment lady chief also called for the maintenance and protection of all seedlings planted. Hinihiling lang namin na sana hindi lang tayo tree planting kundi tree growing hanggang sa makita natin itong lumago at magbigay ng magandang hangin, pagkain at pangkabuhayan," she said in closing.#