06/12/2023
DepEd's 236,000 Trees - A Christmas Gift for Children
Learners and Community Leaders Unite for Tree-Planting Initiative at Sil-okan Eco-Park, Gambang, Bakun, Benguet
Sookan, Gambang, Bakun, Benguet - December 6, 2023
In a festive and environmentally conscious celebration, the Department of Education (DepEd) in collaboration with various school organizations and community leaders gathered at Sil-okan Eco-Park, Gambang, Bakun, Benguet, to plant an impressive 236,000 trees. The event, aptly named "DepEd's 236,000 Trees - A Christmas Gift for Children," brought together officers from different school organizations, dedicated teachers, the school head, Mrs. Christina Fongafong, PTA officers led by Mayrose Tayaban, and Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) representative Kagawad Ronie Bactao.
The picturesque eco-park near the school served as the perfect backdrop for this significant initiative. Nestled in the heart of nature, the participants, armed with shovels and saplings, embarked on a mission to enhance the green cover of the region. The choice of Sil-okan Eco-Park underscored the commitment to fostering environmental awareness and sustainability within the community.
One of the key figures in the event, Kagawad Ronie Bactao, represented the BLGU, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in such endeavors. He remarked, "This tree-planting activity is not just about creating a greener environment but instilling a sense of responsibility and environmental consciousness in the hearts of our children."
The variety of trees planted showcased a thoughtful selection, reflecting the commitment to biodiversity and sustainable practices. Pine trees, known for their resilience and adaptability to the mountainous terrain, were joined by coffee trees and bamboo, symbolizing both ecological diversity and economic sustainability.
The participating organizations within the school community displayed a remarkable unity of purpose. Each group contributed its expertise and enthusiasm, creating a collaborative atmosphere that extended beyond the school grounds. Students were actively involved in every step, learning valuable lessons about the importance of environmental stewardship.
The tree-planting event aligned perfectly with the spirit of Christmas, transforming the act into a gift not only for the current generation but also for the children who will inherit the lush legacy of these planted trees. The initiative aligns with the global call for collective action against climate change and environmental degradation, reminding everyone that the gift of a sustainable future begins with small, impactful actions today.
As the last sapling found its new home in the soil, the participants stood united, hopeful that the planted trees would grow into a symbol of resilience, strength, and a greener, more sustainable future for the community of Gambang, Bakun, Benguet.