Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on Thursday, June 25 led the launching of the Building Opportunities for New Green Spaces (BONG) Project, a province-wide environmental initiative aimed at expanding climate-resilient green spaces and strengthening protection against the impacts of climate change.
The project kickstarted as part of the province’s observance of the 34th Provincial Environment Month, with local officials, environmental advocates, and community members participating in a mangrove-planting activity in Barangay Canmoros, Binalbagan.
In his speech, Lacson said the BONG Project goes beyond tree planting and represents a long-term investment in the future of Negros Occidental.
“This project is part of our continuing efforts to protect our natural resources while addressing the challenges brought about by climate change and urbanization,” the governor said.
Under the program, the provincial government aims to establish 30 hectares of climate-resilient tree plantations across 15 local government units to increase tree canopy cover and safeguard both urban and coastal biodiversity.
The project’s initial site in Barangay Canmoros, Binalbagan will feature a two-hectare coastal greenbelt, contributing to the province’s overall 30-hectare target.
Lacson emphasized that the coastal greenbelt will serve as a natural defense against environmental threats, including coastal erosion, strong winds, storm surges, and other climate-related hazards.
He also highlighted the importance of mangrove forests in protecting coastal communities and preserving ecosystems for future generations.
Aside from tree-planting, the project includes biodiversity conservation education and capacity-building programs for wildlife enforcement officers.
The governor stressed that environmental protection is a shared responsibility and called on communities and stakeholders to actively participate in the care and preservation of newly-planted mangroves.
“We must not allow these mangroves to simply be planted and forgotten. We must nurture, maintain, and protect them, recognizing their value as our natural defense against disasters,” he said.
Lacson added that the BONG Project symbolizes hope and resilience for future generations.
“Today, we are not only planting trees. We are planting hope, protection, and a brighter future for our children,” he said. ||
