Baguio Association of Government Grantees and Scholars – Saint Louis University (BAGGS) is a duly recognized organization of government grantees and scholars in Saint Louis University. BAGGS conducted the tree maintenance activity with 35 volunteers and partner organizations. The initiative supported the National Greening Program, fostering collaboration, environmental stewardship, and sustainability through the care of bamboo and pine trees.
The TANAW: Tree Maintenance Initiative, held on November 22, 2024, at Busol Watershed, Ambiong, Baguio City, was a key highlight of the Scholar’s Week. This initiative, aligned with the National Greening Program, was coordinated with CENRO Baguio Forester Helen K. Ba-awa, particularly addressing the areas surrounding bamboo and pine trees. The activity aimed to raise environmental awareness, encourage collaboration among organizations, and contribute to combating deforestation.
The initiative brought together volunteers from BAGGS and partner organizations such as the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers – Junior SLU Chapter (PICHE – JSLUC), the Air and Waste Management Association (AWMA) – JSLUC, and the Youth Council of Ecolodians (YCE). Participants uprooted grasses, removed invasive plants, cleared debris, and cared for the young trees in the Busol Watershed area. Through this collaborative effort, the activity underscored the importance of environmental stewardship while providing participants with an opportunity to contribute to a greener future.
During the activity, scholars participated in tasks such as pruning, mulching, and removing weeds around trees in designated areas, contributing to their overall health and growth. The event also served as an educational opportunity, with experts providing insights into the importance of tree care in combating climate change, improving air quality, and enhancing biodiversity. Scholars demonstrated teamwork, responsibility, and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship throughout the activity. This initiative not only beautified the designated watershed area, but also fostered a sense of ecological awareness and collective action among the participants. By caring for trees, the scholars actively supported sustainable practices and contributed to a greener, healthier environment for future generations.
By providing scholars with hands-on learning experiences, it supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing knowledge and practical skills in environmental conservation. The activity aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action) as tree care improves carbon sequestration, mitigates climate change effects, and promotes sustainable practices. Additionally, it advances SDG 15 (Life on Land) by fostering biodiversity, protecting ecosystems, and ensuring the health and longevity of trees, which serve as vital habitats for many species. Finally, through collaboration with other organizations, the initiative achieves SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by combining resources, expertise, and efforts to address shared environmental challenges while building a network of partnerships.
This is a call to act now, and care for our nature. For the future to flourish into its roots, we must first secure the present. (Article and Photos by BAGGS – SLU)
