By scaling up its environmental programs, Davao City has planted 74,643 mangroves and distributed 170,761 forest seedlings in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to climate action and ecological protection.
The ambitious greening effort is being led by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), whose programs now extend from vulnerable coastlines to upland communities. Mangroves are being planted along coastal areas to prevent erosion and storm surges, while forest seedlings are being distributed to farmers and community groups, including those near protected zones such as Mount Apo.
Growing a Culture of Environmental Responsibility
According to Jasper Castor, Division Head of CENRO’s Natural Resources Operations Division, the city’s greening initiative has gained strong momentum over the years, fueled by rising interest from barangays and civic groups.
In an interview with the City Information Office, Castor emphasized the role of grassroots education in sustaining the program.
Through regular Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns, CENRO promotes environmental awareness, climate change adaptation, and responsible waste management. These campaigns, he said, have helped communities understand that tree and mangrove planting are practical solutions to climate-related challenges.
“Because of our continuous IEC efforts, more barangays are requesting seedlings. We focus on environmental awareness, climate change, and practical actions like tree planting, mangrove rehabilitation, and proper waste segregation,” Castor explained.
From Tree Planting to Tree Growing
Beyond distributing seedlings, CENRO places strong emphasis on long-term sustainability. Beneficiaries are consistently reminded that the program is not merely about planting—but about ensuring trees survive and thrive.
Castor stressed that maintenance, monitoring, and community ownership are key to the program’s success.
“Tree growing means regular care and monitoring. Without this, planting efforts will not achieve their purpose,” he said.
To reinforce this principle, CENRO works closely with barangay leaders, farmers’ groups, and coastal communities to track the progress of planted seedlings and mangroves.
Reaching Remote Communities
To ensure inclusivity, CENRO has joined the city’s “Serbisyo Caravan” program, which brings seedlings and environmental services directly to remote and far-flung areas. Through this initiative, residents who previously had limited access to planting materials can now actively participate in greening efforts.
This approach has expanded the reach of the program, enabling upland farmers, fisherfolk, and indigenous communities to become partners in environmental protection.
Building Climate Resilience and Biodiversity
Environmental experts note that mangrove forests serve as natural barriers against storm surges and flooding, while upland forests help regulate water systems, prevent landslides, and preserve biodiversity. By strengthening both coastal and upland ecosystems, Davao City is building long-term resilience against climate-related disasters.
Castor urged residents to take part in these programs, stressing that environmental protection is a shared responsibility.
“Protecting and conserving our environment is not only the duty of government. Every Dabawenyo has a role in safeguarding our natural resources and protected areas,” he said.
A Commitment to Future Generations
With climate risks intensifying across Mindanao, the city’s greening initiatives reflect a proactive approach to sustainable development. Through consistent investment in education, community engagement, and environmental rehabilitation, the City Government of Davao continues to position itself as a leader in climate action.
By transforming thousands of seedlings into thriving forests and mangrove belts, Davao City is not only restoring ecosystems—it is cultivating a culture of stewardship that aims to protect lives, livelihoods, and natural heritage for generations to come.
As the city moves forward, its growing green corridors stand as living proof that collective action, rooted in community participation, remains one of the strongest defenses against climate change.