LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- Close to 200 Eugenia trees will soon grow within the stretch of Halsema Highway if the trees planted on Friday will be fully maintained.

Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Arthur Pedro said some 400 participants from different organizations, line agencies and government offices adopted and took part in the tree planting activity along Kilometer 5 to Kilometer 6 in La Trinidad.

"These are fast growing plants as long as maintenance is kept in check," he said.

The trees were acquired by the local government unit from the Benguet State University orchidarium.

Pedro said the Eugenia trees are not deep-rooted and still serve their purpose for tourism, absorb gases to mitigate climate change, address air pollution, and provide oxygen.

The adopt a tree program is in lieu of the commemoration of the 69th founding anniversary of La Trinidad and in celebration of environment for the month of June.

The program is coordinated with the Local Council for the Protection of Children, with children partnered with the respective adopters.

Pedro and Mayor Romeo Salda said the adopters are tasked to maintain the trees.

Salda said the adopters must at least check and water the trees once a week, adding there would also be utility personnel to water the plants.

"We are for the protection and preservation of the trees for our future children," Salda added.

The activity aims to encourage children the value of planting and nurturing trees.