Manila: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Caraga (DENR-13), alongside CTP Construction and Mining Corp. (CTP-CMC) and 30 partner people's organizations (POs), has signed a memorandum of agreement to implement a significant tree replacement project across 890 hectares in Surigao del Sur. The project will cover areas in the towns of Cantilan, Carrascal, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza, and Cortes.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative is set to plant approximately 3.4 million trees and mangroves with a budget of PHP41 million. The project will involve planting indigenous tree species on 870 hectares and embedding mangroves on 20 hectares of coastal land. This effort aligns with the Special Tree Cutting and Earth-balling Permit No. RXIII-06-2024, which has been granted to CTP-CMC.
Under the agreement, CTP-CMC will fund the tree replacement activities, while registered POs will undertake the planting. These organizations include five groups under Community-Based Forest Management, two under the Enhanced National Greening Program in ancestral domains, and 23 new groups in ancestral communities. Each PO will manage seedling production, site development, and maintain and protect the areas for three years to ensure forest recovery and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities.
DENR-13 Director Maritess Ocampo highlighted the project's importance, especially after the recent impacts of Tropical Storm Basyang in Surigao del Sur. She noted that the project contributes to building resilient communities through reforestation and emphasized the importance of cooperation among DENR, CTP-CMC, and local communities in creating future forests.
Joseph Lou Limos, Mines Operations Manager at CTP-CMC, reiterated the company's commitment to environmental stewardship and urged partner organizations to adhere to the agreement to ensure its success. Jonathan Iligan from the Gacub Uyay Farmers Association and Datu Engwan Ala of the Carrascal Indigenous People Association both expressed their commitment and gratitude towards the initiative, recognizing its benefits for the environment and local communities.
