STA. CRUZ, Zambales — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Masinloc, has partnered with Gasat Builders and Supplies, Inc. to restore degraded forest areas here.

CENRO Masinloc head Donaver Guevarra said 45 volunteers planted 1,000 seedlings of coffee, eucalyptus, and yakal in a 100-hectare National Greening Program (NGP) adoption area in Barangay Guiguis, which was hit by a forest fire during the dry season and damaged seedlings planted in previous years.

Aside from Gasat Builders employees, the team included interns from the President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU) in Botolan, volunteers from Mu Omega, RHO Delta, Lambada, Mt. Pinatubo Alpha Phi Omega Alumni Association, and Beta XI Chapter of the Alpha Phi Omega (APO) fraternity, and personnel of CENRO Masinloc

“Sustained rehabilitation, maintenance, and protection activities are essential to ensure the successful recovery of the plantation and strengthen the resilience of the forest ecosystem,” Guevarra said.

He said the collaborative tree growing initiative boosts the government’s long-term forest rehabilitation efforts.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo also underscored the importance of partnerships in advancing forest rehabilitation.

“Through partnerships such as these, we can restore forest ecosystems, strengthen their resilience, and ensure that they continue to provide vital ecological services for present and future generations,” Pablo said.

Meanwhile, CENRO Olongapo City was recognized by the Sealift Amphibious Force (SAF) at the Naval Operating Base-Subic during the unit’s 80th founding anniversary.

CENRO Olongapo City head Edward Sernadilla said his office has worked closely with the SAF for various environment programs that strengthen conservation efforts and promote sustainable resource management.

DENR Zambales Provincial Director Marife Castillo said collaboration remains essential in addressing environmental challenges in the province.

“Zambales is home to valuable coastal and marine ecosystems that support biodiversity and the livelihoods of many communities. Through our continued partnership SAF and other stakeholders, we can further strengthen conservation efforts and ensure these natural resources remain protected for future generations,” Castillo said. ▲