Thousands of people planted 60,000 tree saplings in Tagbilaran, Bohol, as part of the local Church campaign to improve the environment.
According to Diocese of Tagbilaran Bishop Alberto Uy, priests, nuns, and volunteers across the diocese have planted fruit-bearing and hardwood trees. The activity marks this year’s Season of Creation from September 1 to October 4. (Read: The Pope’s Prayer Intention for September 2020)
“This is what we prayed for—that people, especially the young, will learn to love creation and to care for the environment,” the 53-year-old bishop said.
At least 100 volunteers in every parish of Tagbilaran joined the activity and planted 10 trees each in their surroundings, backyards, and other areas designated by the parish. (Read: Proposed House Bills Require Tree Planting for Every Childbirth, Graduation)
Thank you so much Father Lionel, Father Richard and PYM of Panglao for all your efforts to cate for the environment. God is surely happy.#PlantTrees4Posterity
Posted by Bishop Abet on Tuesday, September 8, 2020
Season of Creation
More than 70 church and civil society organizations joined the inauguration of the Philippine celebration of the Season of Creation—an event that urges people to respond to the calls to care for the earth, our common home. (Read: LOOK: Pope Francis Gives Support To Africa’s ‘Laudato Tree Project’)
Just like Pope Francis, Bishop Uy believes that Christians are called to care about God’s creations. He even said that trees do not only beautify the surroundings, they also bring many practical benefits to people. “May all of us develop a love for nature and start caring for the environment,” he prayed.
Tree Loss
Over the years, the Philippines has experienced a great loss in its forests and natural resources. Figures from Global Forest Watch (GFW) show that the country had 13.2 million hectares of natural forest, extending over 62% of its land area. The country lost 48.2 thousand hectares of natural forest in 2019. (Read: Baguio Bishop Hits Property Developer for ‘Murder’ of Pine Trees)
GFW also said that in 2010, Bohol had 165,000 hectares of tree cover, extending to over 41 percent of its land area. However, in 2017, the island lost 583 hectares of tree cover.
