San Teodoro, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur – November 29, 2024
In a collaborative effort to champion environmental restoration and sustainable forest management, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga, CENRO Bunawan, and the Forest and Landscape Restoration-National Project Management Unit (FLR-NPMU) joined forces with the Agusan del Sur College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) to host the Feast of the Forest at the ASSCAT campus.
The event, part of the FLR Project’s broader objectives, emphasized biodiversity enhancement, ecosystem sustainability, and carbon stock improvement through reforestation and community engagement. Supported by a four-year partnership between the Government of the Philippines and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) under the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the project seeks to rehabilitate degraded forestlands and preserve natural resources.
Tree Growing Session: Planting for the Future
The festivities began with a tree-growing activity within the ASSCAT Forest Park. At dawn, stakeholders from the Simulao Watershed and beyond, including students, local government officials, and representatives from various agencies, gathered to plant 300 white lauan tree seedlings.
Former DENR Assistant Secretary Ricardo Calderon, FLR Project Manager, and CENRO Jerome H. Albia underscored the critical role of reforestation in addressing climate change and protecting watersheds. A brief demonstration on proper planting techniques equipped participants with the knowledge to ensure the seedlings’ survival and growth.
Forum: A Commitment to Forest and Watershed Protection
The socio-cultural gymnasium of ASSCAT hosted the forum segment of the event, which saw environmental advocates, experts, and local stakeholders share insights on forest conservation and community involvement.
ASSCAT President Dr. Joy C. Capistrano expressed her institution’s unwavering support for the Feast of the Forest and the FLR Project. Messages of shared responsibility and commitment to sustainable practices resonated through the addresses of OIC-Regional Executive Director Maritess M. Ocampo and CENRO Albia.
Topics covered included:
- An overview of the FLR Project by Ricardo Calderon.
- Profiles and current initiatives in the Simulao Watershed by Shiela P. Monoy and Glaiza Suaring.
- Research studies and forest protection measures by Engr. Michael Sabugaa and Rey Ruiz.
The forum also incorporated a discussion on the Safe Spaces Act facilitated by CENRO Bunawan’s GAD focal person, Genebev Recile, aligning with the ongoing 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women.
Participants concluded the forum by signing a “Commitment Wall,” pledging to protect the Simulao Watershed for future generations.
Creative Advocacy: Poster-Making Competition
The artistic spirit of students took center stage in a poster-making contest themed, “Kinaiyahan, Lumad ug Kabatan-onan: Kahiusa na sa Masanag nga Kaugmaon sa Simulao Watershed.”
Hythena Klier B. Chavez clinched first place, while Trexie Marie B. Delfin and Zhrissa Lee Fano secured second and third places, respectively. Ryan D. Caballero earned the People’s Choice Award. Prizes and tokens of appreciation were given to all participants to encourage continued advocacy for the environment.
A United Vision for the Environment
The Feast of the Forest exemplifies the power of collective action in restoring degraded landscapes and promoting sustainability. By integrating tree planting, educational forums, and creative engagement, the event highlighted the critical role of communities in safeguarding natural resources.
As the Simulao Watershed restoration gains momentum, events like this inspire hope for a greener, healthier future for Agusan del Sur and beyond.