Laguna-Quezon Land Grant, Sierra Madre – April 26, 2025

In the early morning calm of April 26, 2025, fifteen committed eco-volunteers from ITVT Philippines embarked on a meaningful mission within the heart of the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. Their destination: the Laguna-Quezon Land Grant, where they joined a reforestation effort aimed at revitalizing one of the Philippines’ most ecologically vital landscapes.

Blessed with clear skies and a gentle breeze, the volunteers planted 100 native Philippine tree seedlings—30 Balitbitan, 35 Maraluhat, and 35 Kupang. These endemic species were carefully selected for their natural compatibility with local conditions and their essential role in maintaining biodiversity. Unlike foreign species that can upset ecological balance, native trees bolster soil stability, enhance water retention, and provide crucial habitats for native wildlife.

Before the planting began, the team participated in a morning orientation led by Ms. Rose Bocado of the Laguna-Quezon Land Grant. She highlighted the importance of the Sierra Madre mountain range as the nation’s natural defense against typhoons, protecting both rural and urban areas from destructive winds and flooding. This protective role, however, hinges on the preservation of healthy forest cover—now increasingly threatened by illegal logging.

Illegal logging, driven by commercial interests and agricultural expansion, remains a major threat to Philippine forests. Its consequences include soil erosion, landslides, habitat destruction, and the loss of biodiversity. Reforestation initiatives like this one are vital for reversing such damage and restoring ecological integrity. Through the partnership between IT Vision and environmental stakeholders, meaningful steps are being taken to rehabilitate affected areas.

This activity supports the goals of the national Ridge to Reef program—a comprehensive environmental strategy that addresses conservation from mountain ridges down to coastal reefs. By planting native trees, the program helps stabilize upland slopes, improve watershed health, and minimize the risk of downstream flooding. It also integrates broader conservation measures, such as mangrove and coral reef restoration, to protect entire ecosystems along the land-sea continuum.

A key element of the day’s event was the Tree Nurturing Program, which emphasizes Sierra Madre’s crucial role in climate change resilience. As the frequency of extreme weather events increases, forested landscapes act as natural buffers that absorb impacts and reduce disaster risk. Additionally, reforested areas contribute to carbon sequestration, playing a part in global efforts to mitigate climate change.

The success of the event was made possible through the active participation of ITVT Philippines. Their volunteers displayed unwavering commitment and teamwork throughout the activity. Local community members also played a valuable role, preparing nourishing meals and offering heartfelt hospitality. Support from Forest Guardians and environmental facilitators, including Forester Rey Lorida and Ms. Bocado, ensured the initiative was smoothly executed.

Organized in collaboration with FEED, Inc., this tree planting marks a vital step toward long-term ecological restoration. By uniting corporate partners, local residents, and environmental experts, the project encourages collective stewardship and a culture of conservation.

Ultimately, the event did more than plant trees—it planted hope. It laid the groundwork for a healthier, more resilient Sierra Madre and reinforced the shared commitment to a greener, more sustainable future for all.

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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: