A major multi-sectoral partnership to restore 30 hectares of degraded forestland in Bataan was formally launched this week, signaling a significant boost to forest rehabilitation efforts in Central Luzon.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) spearheaded the signing of the pact, which brings together the Provincial Government of Bataan, the Municipality of Limay, the Petron Foundation, Inc., and the people’s organization Samahang Magsasaka sa Kagubatan Limay Bataan, Inc. (SAMASAKA). The five-year initiative, dubbed the Puno ng Buhay–Limay Reforestation Project, targets upland forest in Sitio Daing, Barangay Duale.
“What will make this project succeed is our shared commitment – national and local government, the private sector, and our people’s organizations – working together to deliver concrete results,” said DENR Secretary Antonia Loyzaga, underscoring the collaborative model.
The project will employ a community-led approach within SAMASAKA’s Community-Based Forest Management area. Rehabilitation plans include planting native, fruit-bearing, bamboo, and timber species to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Petron General Manager and Chairperson Lubin B. Nepomuceno highlighted the broader benefits, stating, “This watershed project will help improve groundwater recharge and benefit local communities. Though it covers 30 hectares, it reflects our long-term commitment to work with DENR and our partners in Bataan to sustain and expand this effort.”
Anchored on DENR’s mandate, the project directly supports the National Greening Program. It aims to rehabilitate denuded areas, protect critical watersheds, and contribute to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration.
Upon completion, the rehabilitated area will be formally turned over to the DENR for sustained protection and management. The project represents a continued push by the agency to conserve and sustainably manage the country’s forest resources.#
