In celebration of World Bamboo Day and Philippine Bamboo Month, the Aboitiz Foundation launched its ambitious 10 Million Trees program by planting 700 bamboo seedlings along the Mananga River on Saturday. The event marked the beginning of the foundation’s CarbonPH initiative, aimed at enhancing climate resilience and environmental sustainability across the Philippines.
Led by Aboitiz Foundation president Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar and Buot-Taup barangay captain Rosalita Callino, the planting activity was conducted in partnership with local government units, community members, and Aboitiz business units.
“This activity is not just about planting bamboo. It is about restoring the health of our watersheds, protecting our riverbanks, and building resilience against the impacts of climate change,” said Hontiveros-Malvar. “Each bamboo seedling we plant today represents hope, protection, and sustainability for our communities.”
Bamboo, often referred to as the “green steel” of nature, is praised for its rapid growth, carbon absorption capacity, and soil erosion prevention. It can absorb up to five times more carbon dioxide and release 35 percent more oxygen than equivalent tree stands, making it a key tool in climate action and livelihood development.
The Mananga River Riparian Greening Project specifically aims to rehabilitate one of Cebu’s critical watersheds, which supplies water to thousands of households. The initiative also supports future community-based livelihood opportunities through sustainable bamboo-based industries.
Among those in attendance were Cebu City mayor Nestor Archival and representatives from Talisay City, alongside AboitizPower, Aboitiz Land, Visayan Electric, and other Aboitiz companies.
The Foundation’s 10 Million Trees campaign, through its CarbonPH program, is set to roll out nationwide, focusing on carbon reduction, biodiversity restoration, and environmental protection through widespread bamboo and tree planting.
