EDC’s Norreen Bautista was among the guests who planted native trees to kick off the establishment of the new arboretumEnergy Development Corporation (EDC) and Silliman University (SU) planted 100 endangered native tree species to establish their newest BINHI arboretum inside the Center for Tropical Conservation Studies (CENTROP).

Located at the university’s field laboratory grounds in Palinpinon, Valencia, Negros Oriental, the EDC-SU BINHI Arboretum in CENTROP aims to provide a safe haven for the long-term survival of Philippine native trees.

Endangered Philippine tree species were planted by EDC Negros corporate relations department head Norreen Bautista, EDC Negros production head Engr. Cromwell Ozoa, members of the Negros EDC Professional & Technical Association, EDC community partners, SU vice president for development Jane Annette Belarmino, SU vice president for academic affairs Dr. Earl Jude Cleope, the SU biology department and SU faculty and staff.

In her welcome remarks, Belarmino shared how grateful she was to be a part of the partnership with EDC.

“I am excited to be part of something that could outlive myself. I look forward to seeing these endemic trees grow and flourish for future generations to learn from and enjoy a cleaner and greener Earth,” she said.

EDC will provide SU the native tree seedlings from its priority species under BINHI as well as technical assistance in monitoring and maintaining the tree species.

In her message, Bautista stressed the need to celebrate International Day of Forests every day instead of only on March 21.

“Despite the challenges and not-so-good news happening nowadays, there are a lot of reasons to celebrate this day of forests and its importance. Let us be reminded that forests are not just a source of raw materials but are key means of absorbing carbon and helping to sustain life on this planet,” she noted.

“We are happy that a lot of stakeholders are gradually aligning, collaborating with each other on our efforts to beat climate change and how to help sustain the Earth, our home.” (Story/Photos by: Frances Ariola)