CENRO CALAUAG FINDS AGTA TRIBE BENEFICIAL IN IMPROVING VILLA ESPINA FORESTS

Calauag, Quezon - The DENR CENRO Calauag, headed by For. Joselito D. Barros, assisted the Villa Espina Elementary School in a tree growing activity in Brgy Villa Espina, Lopez, Quezon, to uplift the Agta community's involvement towards improvement and protection of their immediate environment and natural resources.

 

The tribal hall of the Agta community is a scenic tribe near the Calauag River passing Brgy. Villa Espina, is known for its adjacent lush vegetation with diverse flora.

 

The initiative was held in support of the forestry program of Villa Espina Elementary School that aims to manage and protect the local forests through community-driven efforts within its jurisdiction.

 

During the awareness campaign, Tribal Chieftain Wilfredo D. Oloya welcomed the participants of the activity. Afterwards, Brgy. Councilor Wilson Anareta delivered his plans for the Agta community. Raquel R. Capacio, teacher representative of Villa Espina ES, remarked on the importance and impact of their initiatives for the Agtas.

 

Meanwhile, Cyrene C. Oseña, a professor from Philippine Normal University-South Luzon campus highlighted that the success of the program hinges on active community participation.

 

Moreover, on behalf of CENRO Calauag, Forester II Aleli C. Alvarez shared the concept of sustainable development and demonstrated the proper way of handling the seedlings. She emphasized that the site preparation, tree species and site suitability, and maintenance and protection activities are vital to attain high survival of trees planted in the site.

 

This differentiates the concept of “tree growing” from “tree planting,” which promotes the monitoring of planted seedlings and maintaining the planting site after a planting activity.

 

Stakeholders, including volunteers from government and private entities, have planted two hundred (200) native and fruit-bearing trees such as lipote, guyabano narra, kasoy, kalumpit, and ilang-ilang, ensuring their sustainable growth towards the creation of hidden forests in Lopez’s Tribal Community.

 

CENR Officer Barros believes that the commendable effort of Villa Espina ES and concerned stakeholders to preserve the local environment and foster sustainable development in the Agta’s tribe is a significant step towards such community’s involvement for forest conservation and protection in the area.

 

Lt. Col. Joel R Jonson (GSC) PA of 85th IB 2ID PA AFP stated, "The Villa Espina Community Forestry Program exemplifies the power of collective action. By working together, we are not only preserving our natural heritage but also ensuring a sustainable future for the next generations. This initiative showcases our commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being." ###