The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 2 under the leadership of Regional Executive Director (RED) Gwendolyn Bambalan launched today the regionwide simultaneous “Puno ng Pag-Ibig” in celebration of the Heart’s Day.

This aims to highlight the Department’s tree hugging campaign dubbed “I am a tree hugger” and tree growing program.

 

As a way of caring for trees and environment, officials and employees in the regional and field offices including Mines and Geosciences Bureau and Environmental Management Bureau celebrated the day by hugging centennial trees and indigenous tree species to raise awareness on their importance to life’s sustenance and mitigating climate-risks in vulnerable areas.

 

In the regionwide tree growing activity, over 1,000 indigenous trees were planted at the Rogelio B. Baggayan Nature Park and Wildlife Center in Tuguegarao City and in the different provinces of the region.

 

RED Gwendolyn Bambalan of DENR Cagayan Valley emphasized the value of trees to the people and in maintaining the ecological balance of nature.

 

“Trees are important because of their connection to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The trees which will become a forest promote water and food security which are among the major programs of the Department,” she said.

 

During the launch, DENR personnel demonstrated a green heart to manifest the protection and preservation of trees. “Aside from our families and loved ones, we also show our love to nature this Valentine’s Day,” the regional environment chief underscored.

 

Director Bambalan also directed employees to grow at least 10 seedlings a year in their respective backyards or select areas in support of the National Greening Program.

 

Joining the RED were Regional Bureau Directors Mario Ancheta and Nelson Honrado and ARED Marcos Dacanay. The provincial and community environment and natural resources officers led the event in their respective offices.

 

The launch also included fitness activity, roadside cleanup and distribution of seedlings to clients and partner-stakeholders.#