The Silliman University and G-Xchange Inc. (SU-GXI) Reforestation in South Negros Project, led by Dr. Hilconida Calumpong, project coordinator and professor emeritus of the Institute of Environmental and Marine Sciences (IEMS), held a distribution of tree planting certificates event to seven partner peoples’ organizations recently.
It acknowledged their commitment to reforestation and the efforts of local communities. The gathering across seven barangays in four municipalities marked a milestone in the ongoing environmental initiative in Negros Oriental, the SU said.
These organizations included the Latason-Cabcab Fishermen’s Association, Si-it Bay Fisherfolk Organization, Fatima Women’s Association, Nagbalaye Women’s Association, Women’s Guba-Pasil Association, Caranoche Mangrove Community Association, and the Cot-cot Trawlers Fisher’s Association.
Each group plays a vital role in promoting sustainable practices and supporting local ecosystems, the SU said, adding that tree planting initiative spans Barangay Mayabon in Zamboanguita, Brgy. Bongalonan in Basay, and barangays Fatima, Nagbalaye, Poblacion, and Caranoche in Sta. Catalina.
This widespread effort aims to restore mangrove and beach forest ecosystems, which are crucial for environmental sustainability and local livelihoods.
GXI, in parentship with SU, is on a mission to plant half a million mangrove and beach forest species across five municipalities in South Negros.
Over the past year, the project has successfully planted more than 80,000 seedlings, featuring diverse species such as Bitaog (Callophylum inophylum), Bilubituon (Barringtonia asiatica), Bakhaw-Bato (Rhizophora stylosa), Dungon (Heritiera littoralis), Pototan (Bruguiera cylindrica), Busaing (Bruguiera gymnorhiza), and Lapis-lapis (Ceriops decandra). ||
