Under the warm sunshine and rare calm skies of March 29, 2025, a group of 89 AXA Philippines employees gathered at the Laguna Quezon Land Grant to take part in an important mission: to help heal the Sierra Madre, the longest mountain range in the Philippines and a vital stronghold of biodiversity.

This tree-planting activity, organized in collaboration with Fostering Education and Environment for Development, Inc. (FEED), was more than a corporate social responsibility event—it was a step toward restoring one of the country’s most ecologically significant landscapes. The Sierra Madre, often called the “backbone of Luzon,” is a critical natural barrier against typhoons and home to many endemic species. Yet, it faces growing threats from deforestation and climate change.

The day began with a lively warm-up session led by Rose Bocado from the Laguna Quezon Land Grant, preparing participants for the physically demanding work ahead. Following that, Anne Marie Bakker of FEED provided an engaging orientation, introducing the “Ridge to Reef” program. This initiative highlights the vital connection between reforestation in the uplands and the health of marine and coastal ecosystems downstream. Bakker emphasized how restoring forest cover helps stabilize watersheds, reduce flood risks, and support the sustainability of entire communities.

  With shovels in hand and boots caked in soil, the volunteers planted 1,000 native tree seedlings—500 Balitbitan and 500 Malaruhat. These species are indigenous to the region and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They help combat soil erosion, regulate water flow, support local wildlife, and sequester carbon—key contributions to climate resilience and environmental recovery.

As the group fanned out across the rugged terrain, Forest Guardian Allan Libarnes offered hands-on guidance on proper planting techniques and shared fascinating insights into the characteristics and ecological importance of each tree species. His deep knowledge and passion inspired many, making the experience not just educational but deeply meaningful.

Despite the Sierra Madre’s reputation for unpredictable microclimates, the group managed to make the tree planting both efficient and enjoyable—even as mild weather abruptly gave way to rain. The sudden shift was still seen as favorable, highlighting the importance of every tree planted in a landscape where success is rarely easy.

The activity wrapped up with a hearty meal prepared by members of the local community, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration that defined the entire event. Words of appreciation were extended to Forester Rey Lorida and the dedicated Forest Guardians team, whose efforts were instrumental in making the day a success. Ms. Bocado was also recognized for her seamless coordination and unwavering support.

As the last seedling found its place in the soil, hope for a greener, more resilient Sierra Madre grew stronger. FEED continues to urge individuals, companies, and institutions to join in their mission—because healing the environment takes more than just awareness; it takes action, one tree at a time.

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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.

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: