Over 2,200 trees planted in Flora this year; Mayor Juan, VM Blas highlight sustainability

Flora, Apayao - Mayor Rodolfo B. Juan and Vice Mayor Jeofrey Blas on Wednesday underscored the need for sustainability in tree growing drives saying it is not sufficient to just plant them without cultivation and monitoring of their growth.

This 2024 alone, 2,200 young trees have been planted within the municipality–a tangible proof of the administration's pursuit towards a greener, healthier and vibrant locality, while mitigating the effects of climate change.

In an interview at his office, Mayor Juan complimented the CSC's tree growing program and the activity which was recently conducted in the town and expressed his gratitude for those who participated, underlining its significance as it was held in a historic site, in Bagutong.

"In behalf of the officialdom of the LGU, and the people of Flora I expressed my gratitude to each and everyone who participated, especially to the CSC represented by Director Ruben U. Wacas. This year's tree growing is special because it was done at the EKB Eco-Tourism Park, where it was named after Apayao's founding father Elias K. Bulut Sr, reminding all of us his undying legacy of environmental values," Mayor Juan stated.

Vice Mayor Blas, similarly, said his office always supports National programs. Blas also mentioned the initiatives crafted by the Sangguniang Bayan which he leads, adding they fortify the towns Environmental Code. "Rest assured that the LGU's participation to National programs on environmental care is always there, and I would like to reiterate our shared responsibility and accountability must be at the forefront," he expressed.

Meantime, MENRO Engr. Sonny A. Butel said 1,000 trees were planted at the 1.5 hectares in Bagutong alone, and the rest have been planted in other barangays. In Butel’s estimate, the area planted with 2,200 trees is about 3hectares, and pledged he would consistently oversee it to ensure an environmentally resilient future of the Floranians.