UP Medical Students Ring in the New Year with a Green Start by Planting 250 Trees

On the chilly, misty morning of January 7, 2024, the first week of the New Year dawned with a unique purpose as 16 determined UP Medical Students gathered in the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. Typically, the microclimate in these mountains is characterized by heavy rains and strong winds, which make the environment unpredictable and challenging. Microclimates in mountainous regions are often shaped by the terrain, leading to localized weather patterns that can vary significantly from the surrounding areas. Despite the usual harsh conditions, these eco-warriors were unfazed, bringing their energy and commitment to the Laguna Quezon Land Grant in Siniloan, Laguna, where they successfully planted 250 native Philippine trees.

Importance of Native Philippine Trees

Planting native Philippine trees is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and promoting biodiversity within the country. These trees have evolved alongside the local flora and fauna, creating a symbiotic relationship that supports a wide range of species. Unlike non-native species, endemic trees are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, ensuring better survival rates and resilience against pests and diseases. Additionally, native trees help prevent soil erosion, maintain water cycles, and contribute to carbon sequestration, making them vital in the fight against climate change. By planting native species, we also preserve the unique heritage of the Philippine forests, which are home to many species found nowhere else in the world. The significance of these trees extends beyond ecological benefits, as they also play a role in sustaining the cultural and economic practices of indigenous communities.

The tree planting event was formally opened with a message from Forester Rey Lorida, a seasoned expert and the manager of the Laguna Quezon Land Grant. In his speech, Forester Lorida emphasized the importance of a mutual relationship between humans and nature, highlighting how our actions directly impact the environment and, in turn, our own well-being. He discussed how reforestation efforts like this are not just about planting trees but about nurturing life and ensuring the sustainability of our natural resources for future generations. The program was a collaborative effort, with contributions from the local community, forest guardians, and students, all working together towards a common goal. After the planting activity, the group shared a meal prepared by local women, symbolizing the strong community spirit that underpinned the event. This event not only marked the start of the New Year but also reinforced the collective responsibility of caring for the environment.

Ridge to Reef Program and Illegal Logging

The Ridge to Reef Program emphasizes the interconnectedness of upland reforestation and the protection of coastal areas and urban centers from flooding. By restoring forest cover in the uplands, the program helps regulate water flow, reducing the risk of flash floods and landslides in lower-lying areas. This approach is particularly significant in the Philippines, where illegal logging has long been a major issue, leading to deforestation and environmental degradation. Restarting the fight against illegal logging requires stringent enforcement of environmental laws, reforestation efforts, and active participation from local communities. Through the Ridge to Reef Program, upland reforestation not only revitalizes the forests but also safeguards downstream communities from the devastating impacts of flooding and erosion. This holistic approach to environmental management ensures that the benefits of reforestation extend beyond the immediate area, creating a ripple effect that enhances the resilience of ecosystems and communities across the region.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the enthusiastic UP Medical Students for dedicating the first week of their year to this cause. Our sincere thanks also go out to the local community, especially the women who prepared a delicious lunch for everyone, and to the Forest Guardians and Forester Rey Lorida, whose guidance made this event a success. As we begin a New Year, let this commitment to environmental stewardship be our resolution for the rest of the year and beyond.

How Trees Secretly Talk to Each Other (BBC News)

Trees talk and share resources right under our feet, using a fungal network nicknamed the Wood Wide Web. Some plants use the system to support their offspring, while others hijack it to sabotage their rivals.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWOqeyPIVRo

Contact FEED

Join us in helping reverse the Earth’s “hothouse climate” tipping point. Plant plant plant.

Tree-Planting with FEED

Contact us at FEED for more details, to join our regular activities or to design your own tree-nurturing event: info@feed.org.ph or call/text +63 (0)917 552 4722.