DENR-ARMM launches ‘Grow a Tree, Now!’ program

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DENR-ARMM) in partnership with the Association of Lady Environmentalists (ALE) has spearheaded the launching of the “Grow a Tree, Now!” program in conjunction with the celebration of the International Women’s Month at the Regional Forest Nursery in Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Officials and employees of the regional government and its different line agencies participated in a ceremonial soil bagging and seedling potting as highlight of the activity.

The seedlings will be used in tree planting activities of various government and non-government organizations and local government units as advocated by the DENR in its reforestation and environment conservation campaign.

The undertaking underscores the significant role that women play in the conservation and protection of the environment besides the crucial role they have in the society.

“Let us also take a lead in the advancement of important environmental issues even as we strive to promote and protect the rights and welfare of women with the observation of the International Women’s Month,” says Tharhata Ampatuan, Chairwoman of the Regional Commission on Bangsamoro Women (RCBW).

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan said “the regional government recognizes the numerous contributions of women in various social and economic issues of the region, thus, we will continue to create an environment that is sensitive to and well aware of the potentials, rights and welfare of women.”

The launching of the program is one of the lined-up activities in observance of the Women’s Month with the theme “CEDAW ng Bayan: Karapatan ng Kababaihan!”. This year’s the 25th Anniversary of the Convention of the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

Director Brahim Andamen of DENR-ARMM said that the active involvement of the women sector generates larger impact in their environmental protection and conservation thrusts.

“Women of today are more assertive of taking prominent roles in advancing different civic and environmental causes,” he said. (BPI-ARMM)