By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff Reporter
Paoay, Ilocos Norte—Thirteen personnel of a private firm based in Metro Manila along with 150 environment science students of Mariano Marcos State University planted 700 narra and molave saplings at the Paoay Lake National Park on January 17, 2020.
With a team of forest rangers from the Environment and Natural Resources Office who assisted the participants, Atty. Paolo S. Teston, partner of M and A Associates said it always feels good to be close to nature after their daily grind in the metro.
“As we work in the law firm, we attend to hearing and meet with clients. I remember joining tree planting activities way back in college that was long time ago. With the eruption of Taal Volcano and with the current environment crisis around the world, it reminds us to do our part for the environment,” said Mr. Teston.
Through the initiative of Atty. Liza Araneta-Marcos, wife of former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr, the tree planting program of the China-Philippines Unified Enterprises Inc. and M & A Associates aims to generate public awareness on the importance of preserving the environment before it is too late.
Both firms are spearheading an environment awareness campaign in various parts of the province for the first time to ensure the Ilocanos are always reminded of the beauty of nature and their inherent role to protect it.
As the renewable energy capital of the country, Ilocos Norte is poised to sustain its greening programs, particularly in protecting its watersheds and other sources of water.
Estrella “Baby” Sacro, project manager of the Barangay Ranger Officers in Ilocos Norte said they have tapped the services of BRO to help maintain and grow the trees being planted by various groups and individuals.