BAGUIO CITY – Government agencies and private groups have planted more than twenty one thousand tree seedlings within the city to help mitigate the effects of climate change.
As of the end of September, 21,220 seedlings; 17, 758 from the Botanical nursery and 3,462 from the Busol watershed nursery have been planted in Forbes Park I and II, Upper Wright Park, Sto. Tomas rain catch basin. More than 10,000 seedlings await later planters in other venues; watersheds, residential or commercial sites.
Tree planting in other venues; within residential compounds and commercial establishments, is also done in compliance to City Ordinance no. 5; for the issuance of occupancy permit. At least 65 ornamental, fruit and non-fruit bearing trees were planted by building and establishments owners, it was known This was reported by Forestry Division head Beatriz Gajete of the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) during the regular Alay Sa Kalinisan (ASKI) meeting last week at city hall.
As the tree-planting activities, 1,379 city hall employees from 24 departments; 82 associations and offices, the National Greening Program was complied with. Other tree-planting activities were done in line with the Civil Service Commission month celebration last September.
Benguet Pine, Alnus, Caliandra, Mahogany, African Tulip, Percimon, Calamansi, Arabica Coffee and pomelo are among the species planted and some still for dispersal.
Tree-cutting and trimming around the city is also being done, it was reported, for the safety of home-owners.
In the same forum, Jones Gas-ib of the Burnham Park Office reported that the city cemetery is being prepared for All Souls’ and Saints day. Clearing of said cemetery is done by job order employees, he said.
Mass propagation of flowers and ornamental plants for “Christmas In Baguio” is also done in the city parks, Gas-ib said.
In general, plants absorb pollutant Carbon dioxide, and exude Oxygen which is utilized by human beings and animals for respiration. Planting in all vacant spaces, thus, is urged for Baguioites./Julie G. Fianza
