EVERY first Friday of July is tree planting day in the town of Buguias, Benguet.

During that day, Bugias residents 12 years old and above must each plant a tree in a symbolic gesture to protect the environment.

The town council has in fact an ordinance for the observance of Arbor Day.

The measure, authored by Councilor Rafael Palasi, underscores the need for the community and stakeholders to united in protecting the environment.

It likewise spells out effective maintenance and sustainability efforts of the planted trees including ornaments with the help of barangay officials and deputized non-government organizations.

The trees are planted in school grounds, gardens, vacant public lands and parks. Susan C. Aro