Following an overwhelming response to this year’s Philippine Arbor Day on June 25, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is moving its priority from planting saplings to ensuring they thrive long-term, after exceeding its one-day target by more than a million trees.
Instead of the planned 3 million saplings, a total of 4.2 million were distributed nationwide. Of these, 1,673,572 were physically planted across 1,131 sites covering 2,347 hectares, while the remainder will be planted throughout July. The mobilization drew 61,199 volunteers from all sectors.
Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna said the effort aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives to restore ecosystems, boost disaster resilience, and integrate greening into flood control projects. It also launches the DENR’s flagship Luntiang Bukas campaign for climate-ready communities.
“Planting is only the first step. The true measure of success is how many trees continue to grow years from now,” Cuna emphasized. “Forests thrive only with shared care between government, communities, schools, civil society, and the private sector.”
A new monitoring system will be rolled out to oversee regular watering and protection of sites, implemented jointly with local governments and partner groups.
Volunteers and community leaders stressed that tree survival directly affects public safety. “These trees are our first defense against floods and storms—let no one destroy them,” said Arnold Natividad of Manila’s Parks Development Office. Youth volunteer Marvin Duco added that sustained care will bring long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits for coming generations.
Dolores, Quezon environment officer Randy Matibag urged: “Do not let our work go to waste. We must nurture these saplings to secure our future.”
Under Republic Act 10176, Philippine Arbor Day is observed annually on June 25 to drive forest restoration and sustainable development. The DENR noted that successful greening will also protect water supplies, revive biodiversity, improve air quality, and create livelihood opportunities.
