Senator Loren Legarda Advocates for Environmental Stewardship on Arbor Day

MANILA, Philippines – On June 25, 2025, as the nation celebrated Arbor Day, Senator Loren Legarda called for heightened engagement among Filipinos in environmental stewardship through community-based tree planting and green initiatives. This annual observance, established under Proclamation No. 643, aims to foster a nationwide movement aimed at reforesting and revitalizing ecosystems.

In her statement, Legarda emphasized, "Every tree that we plant today is a seedling of hope for the future. We must embrace this shared advocacy to pursue environmental sustainability for ourselves, for our children, and for the succeeding generations." A noted figure in environmental legislation since her initial term in the Senate in 1998, Legarda has been instrumental in advancing various grassroots programs and policies aimed at ecological preservation.

The senator highlighted the importance of collaboration among national and local governments, private sectors, and community groups to address the climate crisis and restore degraded ecosystems. "Successful reforestation requires more than planting for the sake of numbers; it means planting the right trees, in the right places, and ensuring they survive and thrive," she stated.

Legarda's commitment to environmental conservation is reflected in her sponsorship of significant legislation, including Senate Bill No. 2135, the Barangay Greening and Forest Land Rehabilitation and Protection Act, which empowers local communities to act as stewards of their environment. She also introduced Senate Bill No. 2320, the Sustainable Forest Management Act, aimed at enhancing the management and protection of the Philippines' forest resources.

Furthermore, Legarda underscored the pivotal role of native trees in reforestation efforts. "Native trees play a vital role in restoring our forests and rebuilding the health of our ecosystems. They are naturally adapted to Philippine climate and soil, support local biodiversity, and are more resilient to disasters and changing weather patterns," Legarda explained. She urged the public to actively participate in tree-planting initiatives and advocate for the protection of native and endemic tree species.

The senator's call to action comes at a crucial time when the Philippines faces increasing environmental challenges, including deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change. According to a 2021 report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the country has seen a decline in forest cover, which is detrimental to its rich biodiversity and ecological health.

Legarda's advocacy is supported by various environmental organizations and experts who emphasize the necessity for collective action to combat climate change and promote sustainable practices. Dr. Maria Elena De Guzman, a climate scientist at the University of the Philippines, stated, "Tree planting is essential not only for carbon sequestration but also for enhancing community resilience against climate impacts."

As Arbor Day serves as a reminder of the importance of trees and forests, Legarda's plea for environmental stewardship resonates as a clarion call for individuals and communities to engage actively in preserving the planet. "Let Arbor Day inspire us that what we plant and nurture at present shapes the future we will harvest," she concluded, reinforcing the notion that every small action contributes to a larger movement towards sustainability and environmental consciousness.

In conclusion, the involvement of every Filipino in environmental initiatives is crucial for cultivating a culture of stewardship and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. Legarda's leadership in this area exemplifies a commitment to fostering an ecological mindset among the populace, underscoring the interconnectedness of humans and nature.