One for Nature: DA-RFO 8 Tree Planting Activity

A great way to start the weekend is to break a sweat early in the morning and witness the grandiose rising of the sun as its rays reflect towards the dewed greenery- a to die for atmosphere anyone wishes to experience; and as millennials put it, an Instagram-worthy spot. It was the same scenario for the staff and personnel of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8, headed by the Admin and Finance Chief, Ms Zenaida Abunales, and Personnel Chief, Ms Susana Galapon, who actively went out of the four walls of the office for a tree planting activity.

The activity took place in the middle of the slopey, thick portion side of the mountain hill at Villa Mayor Subdivision, Caibaan, Tacloban City on June 17, 2017. The said activity is in observance of the Soil Conservation Month, which is being commemorated annually by the agency, particularly the Bureau of Soil and Water Management.

Armed with bolos and mahogany plantlets, the team (consists of 30 members who were present) trekked an almost one kilometer trail going to the planting site. After roughly 20 minutes hike, the group reached the site and immediately transplanted the mahoganies. Despite of the challenging climb, the group replenished their seemingly burnt-out energy due to the overlooking rich foliage combined with cool mountain breeze. For us, it was not just a pause to gasp for air or to relax, it was also a moment of realization that this picturesque view and its richness will soon be gone if people will not take good care of the environment.

Shirts soaked with sweat and faces marked with exhaustion, the team slowly hiked back to the assembly area below the mountain. It was indeed tiring; however, it was a matter of consolation for us knowing that with this simple measure we were able to help the environment, and we were able to unite and be one for nature.  (KEVIN G. BIOL, DA-RFO 8 RAFIS)