• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Department of Public Works and Highways is implementing a tree replacement program to mitigate the impact of project-related vegetation removal.
“This initiative is closely coordinated with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which mandates a tree replacement ratio,” DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said in his letter to the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod, in response to an earlier SP resolution on the replanting program in line with infrastructure projects.
For every tree removed due to an infrastructure project, a corresponding number of trees must be replanted to ensure ecological balance and support to the National Greening Program (NGP), Bonoan said.
The resolution stemmed from various requests for a resolution of no objection (RONO) on the cutting or removal of trees to give way to infra projects.
The tree replacement program is aligned with environmental compliance protocols…and is part of the regulatory framework for environmental protection and sustainable development, Bonoan added. | CGC
