DENR recognizes RAFI for Run 2 Plant 4 GREENIN Philippines

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) lauded the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) for implementing a native tree seedling production and plantation establishment.

At the same time, DENR acknowledged RAFI for spearheading the Cebu Province-wide Run 2 Plant 4 GREENIN Philippines activity last June 25 that drew thousands of people running and planting to support the goal of increasing Cebu’s forest cover. The participants from the 48 municipalities and cities in Cebu collectively planted more than 100,000 native tree seedlings in their respective areas.

The recognition was held in a simple awarding ceremony during the culmination of the 2011 Philippine Environment Month celebration at the DENR Regional Office in Banilad, Mandaue City.

The Run 2 Plant 4 GREENIN Philippines event is a simultaneous planting of native tree species in the towns and component cities of Cebu preceded by a run segment, with the central event held in Talisay City. It provided an avenue for the launch of the National Greening Program (NGP) in Central Visayas.

It is an initiative of RAFI under its GREENIN Philippines (Generation REdemption and Expansion of Natural resources INitiatives in the Philippines) Program. The program’s strategies and approaches are holistic, focusing more on tree-growing and post-planting activities to ensure the survival of the native trees planted and ensuring the growth of vibrant forests.

RAFI committed its GREENIN Philippines Program to complement with the government’s NGP implemented under Executive Order No. 26 issued by President Benigno Aquino III.

GREENIN Philippines Program is a program under the Integrated Development focus area of RAFI, addressing the foundations needed to develop successful communities. Its other focus areas include Micro-finance & Entrepreneurship, Culture & Heritage, Leadership & Citizenship, and Education.

For more information about the GREENIN Philippines Program, please contact 418-7234 loc. 519 and look for Neil Papas or Myryl Mendoza.