DENR-Zambo Peninsula targets to plant 24,416 trees

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, March 5 (PNA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the National Greening Program (NGP) is set to plant 24,416 trees this year here in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

DENR’s Forest Management Services Regional Technical Director Carlito Tuballa said Wednesday that they originally targeted to plant 19,159 trees but it was increased to 24,416 trees in line with this year’s concept of the NGP to alleviate the livelihood of the farmers by incorporating into the program the planting of high-value crops (HVC).

Tuballa said they will incorporate the planting of 5,257 HVCs such as rubber and fruit trees, bamboo and mangrove. It will be planted by selected partner community-based farmers’ organizations.

Tuballa said the 24,416 assorted species of trees including those classified as HVC will be planted in four areas as follows: Zamboanga del Norte, 10,273 trees; Zamboanga del Sur, 4,651; Zamboanga Sibugay, 4,544; and, Zamboanga City, 4,948.

He said they will closely monitor the growth of the trees to ensure zero damage or mortality, citing any damaged trees will be immediately replaced with new ones.

He said this year’s number of trees to be planted in the region will be higher by 3,418 compared to the 20,998 trees grown last year. (PNA)
LAP/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION/UTB