THE City Government of Baguio on Monday launched the kickoff of its 4th year compliance of the National Greening Program June 2.
City Government officials led by the Mayor Mauricio Domogan, along with the department heads and assistants participated in a tree planting activity as part of the urban green horizon program or the NGP held after the flag ceremony at the mini forest in front of the City Hall.
Beatriz Gajete of the City Environment and Parks Management Office's Forestry Division encouraged city officials to plant trees in areas they can still make green as a commitment to make the Summer Capital greener and cleaner in terms of air quality.
"Let us take the responsibility to plant trees," she said adding after all, planting a tree is like planting a friend which people get attached to when they learn how to take care of it.
Around 65 Benguet pine seedlings were planted, which the participants hope will grow into natural air purifiers.
Prior to the activity, Gajete briefed the participants on the proper measures from the proper handling of the seedling up to how it should be planted to ensure growth and survival.
"We don't just plant for compliance, but we plant because we would want our plant seedlings to survive," she said.
Gajete encouraged the City Government personnel to continue assisting CEPMO in collecting seedlings from the extension nurseries located at the Botanical Garden for the next tree planting activities.
As the World Environment Day approaches on June 5, Baguio City is doing its part in ensuring safe and healthy environment.
In an announcement, CEPMO head Cordelia Lacsamana said they will continue their synchronized clean up of waterways and parks in the city; expand the implementation of the clean air ordinance; and continue to monitor the ambient air quality.
As part of the biodiversity campaign she shared the bio-resource center located at the City Hall will also be re-launched. She shared they have started augmenting its function as a seed bank. She ended they will develop it as a center for ornamental plants rehabilitation and revitalization.