Government troopers planted 911 tree seedlings of various species on Saturday at a military camp in Sulu and at a former Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) stronghold in Basilan in celebration of the 129th Philippine Army (PA) anniversary.
The tree-growing activity in Sulu was spearheaded by the 1102nd Infantry Brigade (1102Bde), while in Basilan, it was conducted by the 32nd Infantry Battalion (32IB).
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102Bde, said the Sulu planting was held at Camp Abdurahman K. Arbison (AKA), which houses the brigade headquarters in Barangay Bual, Luuk.
At least 571 seedlings were planted at Camp AKA, including 298 lawaan, 167 marra, 62 mahogany, 37 lanzones, five durian and two mango tree varieties.
“Through the strong partnership between the Philippine Army, local government units and our people, we continue to plant not only trees but also the seeds of unity, cooperation and lasting peace,” Delos Santos said in a statement Saturday.
In Basilan, the tree-planting activity was held in Barangay Mahatalang, Sumisip, which is part of the Sampinit complex, the former stronghold of ASG bandits.
The Sampinit complex is located at the tri-boundary of the towns of Lamitan City, Sumisip and Maluso.
Lt. Col. Gerwin Maghuyop, commander of the 32IB, said 340 hardwood seedlings — 180 yakal and 160 narra — were planted by joint military-police forces, barangay officials, youth volunteers, and the Government of the Philippines-Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s Joint Peace and Security Team.
Maghuyop said the environmental initiative forms part of the “Army Cares” program, which promotes environmental protection, sustainability and stronger community partnerships.
“Protecting our environment is a duty that we must all share. Through activities like this, we not only plant trees but also plant hope for a more sustainable and resilient future,” he said in a separate statement.
The tree-planting activities in Sulu and Basilan are part of the Philippine Army’s effort to plant 129,000 seedlings for its founding anniversary. (PNA)
