When we plant trees, we also plant for our future. And through meaningful collaboration and caring hearts, we can repair the damage caused by decades of human neglect and irresponsibility one seedling at a time.
Highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship and the sustainable management of our natural areas, the Ateneo de Zamboanga University, through the efforts of the Ateneo Center for Environment and Sustainability (ACES) and the Social Development Unit (SDU), with support from the Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR) and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) joined forces to spearhead the Stewardship and Indigenous Environmental Management for Biodiversity and Resilience Actions or SIEMBRA Project. Serving as a launching event for this momentous project, a Tree Planting Activity was conducted earlier today, February 5, 2025, 8 AM, at Barangay Patalon Zamboanga City. This is also the flagship program of the Jesuit Refugee Service under the C3P3, Care for Communities and Creation – Pillar 3.
Graciously sharing their time, friendship, and efforts to this cause are the project’s partners – the Labuan Patalon – Limpapa Subanon Indigenous Cultural Communities (LPLSICC) comprised of the Subanon tribe who are the key-persons for the perpetuation of this project. Present during the launch was University President Fr Ernald M Andal, SJ who, together with LPLSICC member Timouy Leo Gumandao, ACES Director Mr Emir V Epino, OCENR Assistant Head Mr Gerry Pollisco, and other notable figures, gave out their personal messages expressing their hope, support, zeal, and gratitude for the creation of SIEMBRA.
Witnessing leaders, community members, stakeholders, and the AdZU eco-warriors coming together to plant seedlings for the propagation of our forests and the overall well-being of our natural zones was a sight to behold and is emblematic of unity in purpose and action which is part of AdZU’s Vision and Mission.
AdZU expresses our profound gratitude to the IP community of Patalon and our mission partners. This is but the first in an exciting lineup of eco-activities to be done throughout the implementation of the SIEMBRA project.
Together, let’s create a future where our natural zones, from our mountains to the coastlines, remain healthy, lush, and vibrant.
More photos here – https://photos.app.goo.gl/mKZpaWbkwSxEjLhs5
