Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao exceeds goal of planting 13,000 trees

The Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao, Philippines, has surpassed its goal of planting 13,000 trees at its five-hectare Zonta Garden and Forest, located within the MTWD Watershed in San Roque, Peñablanca.

On 15 March, the club, alongside partners from the Tuguegarao City Cagayan Dental Chapter and the Tuguegarao City Moog ng Agila Club, planted 1,200 seedlings, including duhat, fringon, tindalo and ipil. According to Club Environment Chair Cheyenne Tang, this effort brought the total number of seedlings planted since 2021 to 14,193, exceeding the club’s initial target.

This initiative aligns with the club's commitment to environmental sustainability and supports the observance of World Water Day, emphasizing the connection between forest conservation and sustainable water resources. By rehabilitating the watershed, the club contributes to protecting water quality, replenishing groundwater and promoting climate resilience.

“As of today, a total of 14,193 seedlings have been planted, but we will not stop here,” said Committee Chair Cheyenne. “We plan to plant an additional 5,000 trees within this biennium.”

A recent report from MTWD’s environment and resource division showed that 80-85% of planted seedlings have survived, aided by the installation of a water system to sustain growth during dry seasons. MTWD also recognized the club as its most active and consistent partner in tree-planting activities, reinforcing the club’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainability.

The club expressed gratitude to partner agencies, schools, organizations and private enterprises for their continued support in tree-growing initiatives, reaffirming its dedication to building a greener and more sustainable future.