Last November 24, 2025, our tribe of eco warriors—fueled by purpose and unity—braved the mountain ranges of Sierra Madre in Siniloan, Laguna to fight for our planet’s future. Together with 15 passionate students, we planted a total of 230 Philippine native trees: 50 Malaruhat, 40 Lawaan, 40 Lipote, 30 apitong, 30 Agusip, and 40 Yakal, all carefully selected for their role in restoring biodiversity and strengthening our forest ecosystems. Through this collective effort, we honored our shared commitment to climate action and showed that even small groups can spark lasting change.

This movement was rooted in a moment of clarity and purpose, as shared by Isabel Nacionales, BS Agriculture:

“I think everything just fell into place. We needed to plan for our class field trip; we experienced the wrath of climate change with Typhoon Kristine and were burning with passion to help however we could when the opportunity to plant trees with FEED came. The class raised funds through our personal social media accounts. It was such a beautiful experience seeing our friends messaging and pitching in that we were able to raise 230 trees in total!

The experience of planting was even better. We had the chance to hike inside the Sierra Madre forestland, see the diversity of life with different plant species, and relax under the shade of trees while listening to the symphony of birds and insects. Each step felt like a reconnection with nature and a reminder of the responsibility we share in protecting it.

I hope everyone gets a chance to plant trees themselves, feel the calm and serenity of nature, and come out with a lifelong commitment to protecting it. It’s heartwarming to think that the trees we planted will soon stand tall—not only shielding us from the calamities of today but also protecting our loved ones in future generations.”

Native trees are more than just carbon sinks—they are the foundation of resilient, self-sustaining forests. By planting species that are endemic to our land, we support native wildlife, maintain ecological balance, and build natural defenses against typhoons and landslides.

Before the tree planting activity, the class was treated to an educational forest walk guided by Forest Guard Allan Libarnes. As they made their way through the lush Sierra Madre terrain, he shared fascinating insights about the area’s biodiversity, pointing out edible plants and native species of ferns and gingers. Students learned how these plants play a crucial role in sustaining both wildlife and human communities. Thanks to the efforts of our dedicated forest guards, who share not only their knowledge but their deep love for protecting nature, our youth are inspired to carry these values forward in their own journey of environmental stewardship.

We are endlessly grateful to the local community that continues to walk with us on every mission—special thanks to Forester Rey Lorida, Ms. Rose Bocado, and the UPLB Forest Guards for preparing the site, and to our amazing kitchen staff for nourishing us with hearty meals (the binalot at the end of the hike is always a crowd favorite 😋).

Let’s keep planting hope, one tree at a time. Until our next mission for Mother Earth—see you in the forest! 🌱🌏

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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.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bg8rax4yjs

 

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.

 

Extremely passionate about preservation and protection of the environment? 

DM to join our Ridge to Reef Programs: info@feed.org.ph or +63 917 552 4722