The Negros Occidental provincial government has partnered with the Central Philippines State University (CPSU) for the implementation of a 50-year flagship initiative for ecosystem conservation, protection, and rehabilitation.

The Project TANOM (Tanom, Aksyon, Negros Occidental on Mission) launching was marked by a ceremonial tree planting of Dao and other native tree species in Barangay Tagukon, Kabankalan City on Tuesday.

“Tanom” is a Hiligaynon word which means “to plant.”

“We appreciate the collective efforts of the CPSU in shaping Project TANOM into a model of science-based and community-driven environmental action,” Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said in a statement on Wednesday.

“It’s a 50-year partnership. I’m very sure that the next administration will continue to follow through what we have started, especially with the CPSU behind this.”

Lacson and Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) head Julie Ann Bedrio joined CPSU officials and other stakeholders during the launch, underscoring the provincial government’s strong commitment to sustainable development, environmental resilience, and long-term conservation.

The initiative is anchored on a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed between the CPSU and the PEMO on Dec. 11, binding the partnership for 50 years and renewable for another 50 years.

“This is a 50-year partnership to restoring forests, conserving native species, climate adaptation, and empowering communities through knowledge and science,” the PEMO said in a statement. “This long-term agreement ensures the continuity and sustainability of conservation efforts across generations.”

Aside from the implementation of Project TANOM, the agreement also includes the establishment of a Botanical Garden and Conservation Complex at the CPSU campus.

Project TANOM envisions transforming a six-hectare area into a living landscape and conservation complex dedicated to ecosystem conservation, protection, rehabilitation, and botanical development.

It is also designed to serve as a hub for research, instruction, extension services, and community engagement.

“We hope that this partnership will prosper and the goals of this partnership will be achieved to have a source of water here. In order to save lives, we have to plant trees,” CPSU vice president for academic affairs Grenny Jungco said. (PNA)