Kidapawan City, North Cotabato – In an inspiring move towards environmental sustainability, the local governments of Kidapawan City and Antipas are leading the charge with innovative greening programs that showcase the power of community-driven initiatives. Mayor Jose Paolo Evangelista of Kidapawan and Mayor Cristobal Cadungon of Antipas are setting examples of effective governance that prioritizes ecological balance and disaster prevention.
Under Mayor Evangelista’s leadership, Kidapawan City has launched a free distribution program for fruit tree seedlings and bamboo propagules aimed at empowering local farmers. In just two years, the city, home to approximately 175,000 residents, has successfully planted over 2 million seedlings across its barangays, particularly in areas critical for soil stability on the slopes of Mt. Apo, the tallest mountain in the Philippines.
“Our legacy to the next generation will not be skyscrapers but millions of trees,” Mayor Evangelista stated in a recent Facebook post, emphasizing the long-term benefits of reforestation over urban development.
Meanwhile, in the small mountain town of Antipas, Mayor Cadungon is equally committed to enhancing the region’s agricultural potential. By distributing thousands of durian and other fruit tree seedlings, he aims to transform Antipas into a leading fruit producer in North Cotabato. Cadungon’s vision aligns with his goal of fostering local economic growth while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns.
What sets these initiatives apart is their simplicity and effectiveness. Both mayors have demonstrated that substantial funding or elaborate programs are not prerequisites for impactful environmental action. By utilizing common sense governance strategies, they recognize that planting trees in flood-prone areas is a practical approach to mitigating disaster risks and promoting sustainable agriculture.
The success of these greening programs is a call to action for other local government units (LGUs) across the Philippines, particularly those situated in flood-affected regions. The implementation of tree-planting initiatives not only combats flooding but also contributes to biodiversity, improves air quality, and enhances the overall resilience of communities.
As North Cotabato continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, the proactive measures taken by the mayors of Kidapawan and Antipas serve as a powerful reminder of the impact local leadership can have on environmental conservation and disaster preparedness. With their common-sense approach, these leaders are paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future for their constituents and the generations to come.
