The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is joining forces with the Iloilo City government, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and local youth empowerment organization GUGMA Youth to boost youth engagement in environmental protection, ecosystem conservation, and disaster resiliency at the grassroot level.

DENR Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna, said it was “deemed fitting that the protection and conservation of our natural resources is spearheaded by the country’s most important resources – our youth.”

“The DENR has always recognized the constitutional right of every Filipino for a balanced and healthful ecology. Moreso, we recognize our intergenerational responsibility, to preserve the rhythm and harmony of nature for the full enjoyment of that balance and the healthful ecology we deserve,” added Cuna.

Over the near-term, Iloilo City Representative Julienne Baronda said they plan to plant about 30,000 seedlings of native trees to help enhance the biodiversity, improve air quality, and safeguard the riverbanks from soil erosion and flooding.

“If we clean our coastal areas, the flow of water will be unimpeded. If we grow trees, we help in lessening the heat. These are things that seem small to many, but with great impacts for all to benefit, including our children,” Baronda said.

The multi-sectoral initiative was kicked-off by a simultaneous clean-up and tree-planting drive in Iloilo City last July. Over 3,600 volunteers either planted seedlings of native tree species, such as Balai Lamok, Banasi, and Salingogon, or joined the clean-up at Carpenter’s Bridge and Esplanades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9, Dungeon Creek, Lapuz Creek, Batiano River, and Jaro River. ##