MAKIMA, SARANGANI – In a strong show of unity for environmental protection, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12, through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Kiamba, led a large-scale tree planting activity earlier this month that saw 900 seedlings planted across the Sarangani municipalities of Maasim, Kiamba, and Maitum.
The initiative, a key part of the agency’s reforestation and community greening program, was made possible through partnerships with a diverse mix of stakeholders, including private companies, national government agencies, uniformed personnel, and local community groups. Seedlings planted included native species such as Narra and Bayok, along with bamboo and various fruit-bearing trees—each chosen for their ecological and economic benefits.
According to CENRO Kiamba, the activity aimed not only to reforest denuded areas but also to raise awareness on the vital role of trees in preventing soil erosion, preserving biodiversity, and promoting climate resilience.
“This activity reflects our corporation’s ongoing mission to promote environmental sustainability while building stronger ties with our partner communities and government agencies,” said a representative from ABBAH King Cement Corporation, one of the event’s key private sector collaborators.
Other partners included Daguma Agri-Minerals Inc., Sultan Energy Philippines Corporation, Philippine National Police (RMFB 12 and MPS), Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, 105th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, MACOPA, Kablacan Winds, MENRO Kiamba, and the barangay governments of Tamadang and Malbang.
While the planting of 900 seedlings is a significant step, CENRO Kiamba emphasized that the true success of reforestation efforts lies in the continuity of care and regular monitoring. Sustained tree growth depends on follow-up activities such as weeding, watering, and protecting the young trees from pests, grazing animals, and illegal logging.
“Sustainability doesn’t end with planting,” said a CENRO representative. “It begins there. We urge our partners and communities to stay engaged through regular monitoring and maintenance so that these trees thrive and provide lasting environmental benefits.”
The collaborative effort is part of DENR’s broader strategy to instill environmental stewardship across sectors and ensure that reforestation activities translate into long-term ecological impact. As climate challenges continue to rise, such community-based initiatives are essential in building greener, safer, and more resilient landscapes in Sarangani and beyond.