On the crisp morning of November 9, 2024, as the cool holiday season embraced the country, 23 eco-warriors assembled at the Laguna Quezon Land Grant in the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. The micro weather of Sierra Madre, distinct from the urban chill, brought intermittent rains and strong winds, making the trail and planting site slippery and challenging to navigate. This dynamic and rugged setting served as the backdrop for AXA Philippines’ latest environmental initiative, where AXA PH volunteers through AXA Hearts In Action successfully planted 750 native Philippine tree seedlings, helping to safeguard the nation’s rich biodiversity.

Native Philippine trees play a critical role in the nation’s ecosystems. As species that have evolved within the local environment, they provide optimal support for native wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals. Unlike exotic species, native trees promote ecological balance, preventing the displacement of local flora and fauna. Moreover, they enhance soil stability, improve water absorption, and are well-adapted to the Philippines’ climate, reducing the need for excessive maintenance. Planting native trees ensures the restoration of natural habitats and contributes to a sustainable future.

Ridge to Reef: A Holistic Approach

Diane Penales of FEED, Inc., opened the day’s activities with an energizing morning exercise and a brief program orientation. She highlighted the Ridge to Reef program’s comprehensive approach to environmental conservation. This initiative addresses interconnected ecosystems by restoring upland areas with native trees to stabilize slopes and reduce flooding in lowland and coastal regions. Complementary efforts, such as planting mangroves and corals, further strengthen coastal ecosystems. Beyond ecological benefits, the program empowers local communities by offering alternative livelihoods, enabling them to become independent facilitators of conservation activities.

The Sierra Madre: A Natural Shield Against Typhoons

Known as the “backbone of Luzon,” the Sierra Madre mountain range serves as a natural barrier against strong typhoons, mitigating their destructive impacts. The Tree Nurturing Program emphasizes the range’s critical role in climate resilience. By restoring the Sierra Madre’s forests, we fortify our defenses against climate change and ensure that future generations inherit a sustainable environment. However, as Forester Rey Lorida pointed out, the battle against illegal logging persists, threatening the integrity of these vital ecosystems. He urged AXA PH volunteers to recognize the urgency of restoration efforts, emphasizing that our actions today define the legacy we leave behind.

Nature as a Healer and Teacher

The event extended beyond tree planting, with AXA PH volunteers engaging in trekking activity to fully immerse themselves in nature. Such experiences provide more than just a break from the office; they offer profound health benefits. Exposure to nature reduces stress, improves mental clarity, and boosts physical health by lowering blood pressure and enhancing immune function. Moreover, these activities foster camaraderie among team members, strengthening bonds through shared efforts and mutual appreciation of the environment.

Collective Effort and Community Growth

The success of the event underscored the power of collective action. From AXA AXA PH volunteers to FEED, Inc. facilitators and local community members, every individual’s contribution mattered. This collaboration demonstrated that small, consistent efforts can drive significant change, proving that conservation is a shared responsibility.

In addition to the tree planting activity, AXA Philippines further supported the local community by sponsoring two semesters’ worth of scholarships, extending their impact beyond the event. These initiatives were designed to foster goodwill, mutual growth, and long-term positive change. By addressing both environmental and social needs, AXA Philippines reinforced the deep connection between community well-being and conservation efforts.

AXA Philippines’ eco-warriors exemplified determination and enthusiasm, making the event a resounding success. Special thanks are due to the local community, especially the mothers who prepared a sumptuous lunch for all AXA PH volunteers . Forester Rey Lorida and Forest Guardians, alongside Ms. Rose Bocado, ensured the activity’s smooth facilitation. Together, their collective efforts have planted not just trees but also seeds of hope and resilience for Mother Nature.

Looking forward to fostering more meaningful partnerships like this that nurture the environment and the communities that depend on it, leaving a legacy of care and commitment for generations to come.

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AXA Philippines, one of the largest growing insurance companies in the country. AXA provides financial security to almost 2 million individuals through our group and individual life insurance as well as general insurance products. Our strength and expertise are in the hands of more than 7,000 financial advisors in more than 40 branches, as well as over 900 financial executives in over 900 Metrobank and PSBank branches nationwide.

Established in 1999, AXA Philippines is one of the largest and fastest growing insurance companies in the country. It offers financial security to over 1 million individuals through its group and individual life insurance as well as general insurance products.

AXA Philippines is one of the first to introduce bancassurance operations in the country, and is among the pioneers in the investment-linked insurance sector.

AXA now offers a complete range of products for all its customers’ insurance and financial protection needs, including savings and investments, health plans, and income protection as well as general insurance: fire, motor/car, marine cargo, personal accident, bonds, casualty, and engineering insurance products.

AXA Philippines closed 2023 with P2.6 billion in consolidated net income from both its life and general insurance businesses. Today, AXA has over 5,000 financial advisors in more than 50 branches, and over 600 financial executives in over 900 Metrobank and PSBank branches nationwide.

AXA Philippines is a joint venture between the AXA Group, headquartered in France, GT Capital Holdings, Inc. (GT Capital), a leading listed conglomerate in the Philippines, and Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company (Metrobank), one of the Philippines’ largest financial institutions. It is duly recognized by the Insurance Commission.

Tree-Nurturing Program with FEED

Immerse yourself in nature and explore our Tree-Nurturing Program in Siniloan, Laguna, nestled within the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges. Witness the untouched beauty of Mother Nature—watch this video for a glimpse of the experience.

CONTACT FEED

In 2015, the Philippine government submitted to the United Nations the country’s commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The country committed to reduce its carbon emissions by 70 percent by 2030. The carbon dioxide reductions will come from the sectors of energy, transport, waste, forestry and industry.

FEED runs a number of Students and Volunteers for the Environment (SAVE); Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) – such as mangrove planting for coastal protection or ridge reforestation plantings; One Child, One Tree; Bio-Intensive Gardens (BIG) for nutrition in public elementary schools and other spaces; Climate Change Survival 101 and other LIVING LEGACY programs – customised environmental engagement activities for individuals and organisations interested in contributing to climate change adaptation efforts and greening critical areas such as watersheds, ridges, and reefs that all require rehabilitation.

Join us!  Help us reverse the Earth’s “hothouse climate” tipping point.