In a significant push to heal Cebu's upland ecosystems, volunteers planted a total of 1,500 trees in Barangay Lusaran. This event marks the second major activity for the ambitious year-long Reforest Cebu 2026 program, which targets the restoration of critical watershed and forest areas across the city.
A Response to Environmental Crisis
This large-scale planting initiative comes directly after the devastating floods that hit Cebu in November. Those floods caused extensive property damage and tragic loss of life. Environmental experts have consistently linked the severity of such weather disasters to deforestation and unchecked land conversion, making reforestation a vital defense for at-risk communities.
The activity in Lusaran follows the program's first planting event this month in Barangay Tabunan. For the Lusaran effort, organizers carefully selected local and native tree species known for their resilience and benefits. These included narra, tugas, and guyabano, chosen specifically for their adaptability to the local soil and climate, ensuring better survival rates and long-term ecological impact.
Beyond Planting: The Critical Role of Aftercare
John Jeffrey Dabalos, vice chairman of the 256K Tree Planting Initiative under Mayor Nestor Archival, stressed that planting is just the first step. He emphasized the crucial need for dedicated aftercare, comparing seedlings to children who require proper nurturing to grow and thrive. "Ang tanom mura gyud og bata—kinahanglan og hustong pag-atiman aron motubo ug mabuhi. Importante kaayo ang aftercare," Dabalos stated, highlighting that this care is what ultimately transforms seedlings into a protective shield for the environment.
Community and Collaboration at the Heart of the Effort
While capturing public interest, the tree-planting drive is spearheaded by the Sonshine Philippines Movement (SPM), with its Cebu chapter managing logistics and community outreach. Allan Tamondong, SPM project coordinator, framed the program as a lasting commitment rather than a one-time event.
"Sa among tinuoray nga tinguha nga makatabang sa nasud, andam mi nga makigtambayayong sa gobyerno... Dili lang kini pagpananum, kundili usa ka malungtarong responsibilidad," Tamondong explained. He expressed their readiness to partner with the government to secure more land for planting and stewardship, framing it as a permanent responsibility towards nature and future generations.
The initiative was warmly received by Barangay Lusaran residents. Clen Partusa, a local farmers' leader, shared the community's gratitude and hope. "Dako kaayo among pasalamat... Ang inyong dedikasyon sa pag-atiman sa kalikupan usa ka dakong tabang ug paglaum," Partusa said, acknowledging the tangible benefits and hope the program brings to their area.
A Sustained Vision for Forest Restoration
Reforest Cebu 2026 is designed as a comprehensive, long-term environmental program. Its scope extends far beyond the initial planting to include systematic seedling monitoring, continuous aftercare, and deep collaboration with local communities to guarantee successful forest regeneration.
The program's roots trace back to nationwide environmental campaigns started in 2005 under the vision of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy. These efforts live on today through SPM's dedicated environmental advocacy work in Cebu. Organizers are now calling on government agencies, private institutions, and the general public to participate in this collective mission. The core message is clear: proactive environmental action today is essential to preventing larger-scale disasters tomorrow.
