On 21 March 2026, AXA Philippines marked a meaningful milestone as it carried out its 5th tree planting activity at the Laguna-Quezon Land Grant (LQLG) attended by 55 enthusiastic volunteers planting 1000 native Philippine seedlings (490 Balitbitan, 100 Lipote, and 410 Katmon) to restore a part of the Sierra Madres – part of an ongoing effort that reflects the company’s deepening commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. “The day was also chosen to honor the International Day of Forests, highlighting AXA Philippines’ commitment to environmental conservation and the vital role forests play in sustaining communities and biodiversity.” – Krizie Yabes, AXA Philippines CSR
The day began with a welcome by Krizie Yabes of AXA Philippines, Head of CSR (pictured above); followed by and debrief from Anne-Marie M. Bakker, FEED Director of Partnerships, describing FEED’s core function in sustainable community-based Ridge to REEForestation (R2R) interventions centred around forestry, farming and fisheries leaders in taking climate change action.
AXA Participants were oriented on the significance of the site, the importance of reforestation, and how their collective action contributes to long-term ecological restoration and resilience for surrounding communities, as later delivered by Forester Rey Lorida, Head of LQLG.
Setting the tone for a productive day, the group engaged in warm-up stretching exercises—an energizing start before embarking on a 25-minute trail walk to the designated planting area.
Upon arrival, volunteers were welcomed by a well-prepared site, with pre-dug holes that allowed for an efficient and focused planting process. This preparation enabled participants to fully immerse themselves in the experience of planting, ensuring that all 1,000 seedlings were carefully placed into the earth by the forest ranger team: Roger Glipo, Joel Velina, Teofilo Breganza, Kenneth Romaraog, Jimmy Lucreda, Vincent Ivan, Darwin Bacasen, Maniel Furio, Mac Balino and Rose Bocado.
The activity was not only about numbers—it was about connection. As participants worked side by side, there was a palpable sense of purpose and camaraderie, each tree symbolizing a shared investment in the future.
After the planting session, the group continued with a guided trail walk through key parts of the land grant. They visited the nursery, where young seedlings are nurtured for future planting, followed by a walk along Mulberry Row and onward to the Katmon Orchard.
The tour concluded at the eco villas surrounding the lake—an inspiring showcase of how sustainable practices and environmental conservation can coexist with community-centered development; also illustrating a part of the future of sustainable forestry will encompass not only agro-forestry, but wellness and ecotourism.
A special moment came (after the trail walk and planting) when participants enjoyed a native Philippine lunch prepared by the local community managing the “Medellina Cafe”, giving volunteers a taste of local flavors and culture while fostering connections with the community.
The ceremony concluded with Forester Rey Lorida and Anne-Marie Bakker awarding AXA Philippines’ with a Certificate of Participation, also recognizing the importance of active volunteerism’s efforts and dedication.
Ms. Jen dela Cruz, Director of Employee Engagement for AXA Philippines, received the Certificate of Participation from FEED & UPLB with a powerful closing message to all: “Today’s planting is more than just putting trees in the ground—it is a conscious decision to take responsibility for the future of our country. Each of us has the power to make a difference, and real change begins when we choose to act. As we receive this Certificate of Participation from FEED and UPLB, we are reminded that our role does not end here. Let this be a continuing commitment—to care for our environment, to support our communities, and to be stewards of a greener, more resilient Philippines for generations to come.”
The day ended on a deeply fulfilling note. Beyond the physical labor and scenic exploration, there was a strong sense of impact and gratitude. Representing the local community, “We extend its heartfelt thanks to AXA Philippines for your continued partnership—not only for the successful planting activity but also for the five boxes of in-kind donations brought by you the volunteers, including books, educational materials for children, and clothing, all of which will directly benefit community members.” – Forester Rey Lorida
More than just a day of planting, the event stood as a powerful reminder that collective action—rooted in care for both people and the planet—can create lasting change.
Photo Gallery
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:
International Day of Forests
The International Day of Forests is observed annually on March 21 to raise awareness about the vital importance of all types of forests and trees outside forests. Proclaimed by the UN in 2012, it highlights their role in biodiversity, climate regulation, and human well-being, encouraging global efforts like tree planting. (Source: FAO)
Key Aspects of the International Day of Forests:
- Date: March 21st each year.
- Purpose: To celebrate forests and raise awareness of their importance.
- 2026 Theme: “Forests and Economies,” highlighting the essential role of forests in driving economic prosperity, sustainable bioeconomies, and providing nature-based solutions.
- Significance: Forests provide crucial benefits including climate change mitigation (absorbing from fossil fuels), habitats for 80% of terrestrial biodiversity, and essential ecosystem services like water purification and soil protection.
- Activities: Countries are encouraged to organize local, national, and international activities, such as tree planting campaigns, to celebrate the day. (Source: FAO)
- The event aims to encourage efforts to protect forests and promote their sustainable management, as they are often undervalued and underfinanced. (Source; United Nations)
Why Ridge-to-REEForestation Matters in the Philippines
Ridge-to-REEForestation (R2R) is a smart and science-backed approach to restoring Philippine landscapes, from upland ridges down to rivers and coastal areas. By planting trees on steep slopes and connecting them with lower-elevation forests, this method helps prevent soil erosion, landslides, and sediment buildup in rivers, protecting both communities and ecosystems downstream. Continuous forest cover also provides vital habitats for endangered species, strengthens biodiversity, and enhances the land’s natural resilience to climate change. Beyond ecological benefits, R2R supports local livelihoods through community participation in planting and nursery work, ensuring that restoration efforts are sustainable in the long term. In a country facing deforestation and land degradation, Ridge-to-REEForestation offers a practical, multi-benefit strategy for healthier ecosystems, safer communities, and a greener future.
References:
- Lasco, R.D., Pulhin, F.B., & Cruz, R.V. (2008). Climate change and forest ecosystems in the Philippines: Vulnerability and adaptation. Philippine Journal of Science, 137(1), 77–90.
- Pulhin, F.B., Lasco, R.D., & Inoue, M. (2019). Forest landscape restoration in the Philippines: Approaches, challenges, and opportunities. Forests, 10(9), 770.
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). (2020). Forest and landscape restoration for sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific. FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.
Why the Sierra Madre Mountain Range is critically important:
1. The Sierra Madre is the Philippines’ Last Great Natural Shield – The “Backbone of Luzon” protects millions of lives.
- The Sierra Madre mountain range absorbs and weakens typhoons before they reach Metro Manila and Central Luzon. Without its forested slopes, storms hit lowland communities with full, catastrophic force. Forests act as windbreaks, reducing wind speed.
- Tree roots hold soil, preventing deadly landslides.
- Upland forests regulate river systems, preventing flash floods downstream (Cagayan, Isabela, Bulacan, Rizal, NCR).
- Reforesting the Sierra Madre literally strengthens the natural shield that protects Luzon’s densest population centers.
2. The Philippines Has One of the Highest Biodiversity Levels on Earth — and One of the Highest Rates of Loss
- The Philippines is one of 17 megadiverse nations. It has over 52,000 species, many found nowhere else. But over 90% of original primary forests have been lost due to logging, agriculture, mining, and urbanization.
- This means every remaining forest — especially the Sierra Madre — is a refuge for species that could disappear forever.
- Planting native trees restores: Habitat for endangered species; Migration corridors; Gene pools essential for future climate adaptation; Balance in ecosystems that regulate water, soil, and pollinators.
- Restoring natural forests is equivalent to preserving the biological soul of the Philippines.
3. With the 5th Longest Coastline in the World, Filipinos Depend on Both Upland and Coastal Forests
- The Philippines’ coastline is longer than that of many larger countries, and this creates both beauty and vulnerability.
- Coastal forests & mangroves:
– Protect communities from storm surges
– Reduce coastal erosion
– Support fish nurseries, essential to fisheries that feed the nation
– Sequester carbon up to 4–5× faster than terrestrial trees - Upland forests (like the Sierra Madre):
– Regulate water flow to coastal areas
– Prevent sedimentation that smothers mangroves, coral reefs, and fisheries
– Maintain aquifers that supply drinking water to coastal cities - Reforesting uplands is deeply connected to protecting coasts — the systems are interdependent.
4. Climate Change Hits the Philippines First and Hardest
- The Philippines is:
– Top 3 globally in climate risk vulnerability
– Struck by 20+ typhoons annually
– Experiencing hotter, longer dry seasons and more severe rainfall cycles - Trees help stabilize climate by:
– Cooling local temperatures
– Increasing rainfall predictability
– Storing carbon
– Creating microclimates that support agriculture - The Sierra Madre forests are a key part of the Philippines’ climate adaptation strategy.
5. Forests Keep Rivers Alive — and the Philippines Runs on Watersheds
- The Sierra Madre feeds major rivers such as: Cagayan River, Kaliwa River and Angat Watershed (critical for Metro Manila’s water supply).
- Trees:
– Increase water infiltration
– Reduce siltation in dams
– Recharge aquifers
– Ensure stable, long-term water supply - Without forests, rivers die — and so do the cities and farms that depend on them.
6. Forests Support Rural Livelihoods and Indigenous Communities
- Reforestation:
– Provides employment
– Strengthens local stewardship of forests
– Revitalizes Indigenous cultural landscapes
– Supports ecotourism and sustainable resource use
– Healthy forests uplift communities who act as guardians of the land.
7. Restoring Lost Forest Cover = Rebuilding the Earth’s Life-Support System
- The Philippines has lost over 9 million hectares of forests in the last century, with many areas becoming dangerously degraded.
- Restoring these forests:
– Prevents desertification
– Rebuilds soil health
– Revives pollinators
– Reconnects fragmented habitats
– Restores the natural cycle of carbon, water, and life - It is essential for the country’s ecological and economic future.
In summary: Why is planting in the Sierra Madre and the Philippines so important?
Because trees in these landscapes:
- Save lives
- Protect cities
- Preserve biodiversity
- Secure food and water
- Limit climate disasters
- Strengthen coastlines
- Rebuild ecosystems
- Support Indigenous and rural livelihoods
Planting trees in the Sierra Madre — and across our archipelago — is an investment in the long-term survival and resilience of the Philippines.
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 a tree-planting experience with FEED and its partner local communities.
Direct Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFb2_0qr93g
Contact info@feed.org.ph or call +63 (0)917 552 4722 to carry out your tree planting today!
(c) Fostering Education and Environment for Development, Inc.