Laguna Quezon Land Grant, March 30, 2025 — In a heartfelt demonstration of environmental stewardship, Sir Divesh Chelani’s family and friends joined a tree planting activity under FEED’s SAVE (Students & Volunteers for the Environment) Planting initiative. Held within the Laguna Quezon Land Grant, the event saw the successful planting of 200 native Philippine tree seedlings—100 Malaruhat and 100 Balitbitan.

Their efforts made a meaningful and lasting impact. The native tree species planted play a crucial role in preserving ecological balance, having naturally adapted over centuries to the region’s unique environment. With deep root systems, they help prevent soil erosion, enhance water absorption, and reduce the risk of landslides and flooding—particularly in fragile upland zones. Additionally, these trees support rich biodiversity and thrive with minimal maintenance, making them essential to long-term forest resilience and sustainability.

One of the event’s most meaningful aspects was the involvement of a family—highlighting that environmental consciousness often begins at home. When families model concern for the planet, they instill values of responsibility and care in the next generation. These early lessons create strong emotional connections to nature, growing future environmental advocates. The family and friends who volunteered showed active participation underscored how environmental action nurtured in the family setting can lead to deeper, lifelong engagement. As environmental challenges intensify globally, such grassroots efforts are essential in building a resilient culture of sustainability.

This initiative is part of FEED’s broader Ridge to Reef program, which takes a holistic approach to ecosystem restoration—from upland reforestation to coastal mangrove and coral rehabilitation. The program reinforces the connection between land and sea, ensuring that solutions to flooding, erosion, and climate instability are comprehensive and sustainable. Additionally, Ridge to Reef supports community empowerment by offering training and alternative livelihoods, helping local residents become environmental leaders in their own right.

The event also highlighted the importance of FEED’s Tree Nurturing Program, which focuses on restoring and preserving the Sierra Madre mountain range. As the country’s longest mountain range, the Sierra Madre acts as a crucial natural buffer that softens the blow of typhoons before they reach Luzon’s urban centers. In the face of climate change and intensifying storms, protecting this range is more than a conservation goal—it is a strategic necessity for national resilience and disaster risk reduction.

During the activity, Forest Guardian Sir Allan Libarnes spoke candidly about the persistent threat of illegal logging, which continues to undermine conservation efforts. His remarks, supported by Forester Rey Lorida, emphasized the urgent need for stronger community vigilance, improved enforcement of environmental laws, and sustainable livelihood programs to protect the forest for future generations.

Each seedling planted during the event represented more than just a tree—it symbolized hope, renewal, and a collective commitment to safeguarding the planet. The dedication of the 16 volunteers proved that even the smallest group, driven by care and conviction, can create ripples of change that benefit ecosystems and communities alike.

FEED, Inc. extends sincere gratitude to Sir Divesh’ family and friends for their inspiring contribution. Appreciation is also due to the local community, especially the women who prepared a nourishing meal, and to the tireless Forest Guardians and facilitators including Forester Rey Lorida and Rose Bocado. As FEED continues to expand its Living Legacy programs, this event marks another significant milestone in the shared journey toward a greener, more sustainable future.

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GPS Coordinates & Photos of Planting Site

Use any GPS (Global Positioning System) software / applications to input the latitude and longitude coordinates to be able to remotely see the location of your trees planted. Some examples include: