TUKURAN, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR – In observance of the International Day of Forests and National Women’s Month, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region IX, in collaboration with PENRO Zamboanga del Sur and CENROs Ramon Magsaysay and Guipos, spearheaded a tree-growing and forest conservation activity on March 20, 2025. The event took place at the Modernized Mechanized Forest Nursery (MMFN) in Baclay, Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur.
The activity brought together 188 participants from various government agencies, organizations, and advocacy groups. Among those who joined were representatives from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Tactical Operations Group 9 (TOG-9), 1st Cavalry (Tagapanguna) Battalion, 1st Field Artillery “Beat ‘Em” Battalion, AAR, PA (1FAB), Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Zamboanga del Sur Chapter, National Commission of Senior Citizens – Region 9, Knights of Columbus, Barangay Local Government Unit of Tukuran, DENR Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Office, PENRO Zamboanga del Sur, CENRO Ramon Magsaysay, CENRO Guipos, and students from Yllana Bay View College.
Prior to the hands-on activities, a short program was held where CENR Officer Dionisio B. Rago delivered an inspiring environmental message, emphasizing the crucial role of forests in sustaining life and combating climate change. Planning Officer III Noraisa S. Gaudalquiver then presented the rationale behind the activity, underscoring the importance of Women’s Month and the vital contributions of women in environmental conservation.
The day’s activities included seed sowing, seed transplanting, weeding, and watering—providing participants with a hands-on experience in forest restoration and sustainability efforts. The event fostered camaraderie and strengthened the commitment of all attendees to environmental stewardship.
To cap off the event, participants shared a traditional meal consisting of arroz caldo, camote, banana, egg, and orange juice, further strengthening bonds and reinforcing the spirit of cooperation among agencies and organizations present.
The DENR expressed its gratitude to all participants for their active involvement in making the event a success. The celebration not only highlighted the significance of forests in daily life but also underscored the collective responsibility in protecting and preserving them. The event served as a meaningful reminder of the power of unity in environmental advocacy, leaving participants inspired to continue their conservation efforts.