Sulu Garden Foundation kicks-off "Re-Greening of Panay" project with a MOA signing with AFP and BFP

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Sulu Garden Foundation kicks-off “Re-Greening of Panay” project with a MOA signing with AFP and BFP

Published September 3, 2024

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Miagao, Iloilo, Philippines – September 2, 2024 – Sulu Garden Foundation, Inc. [SGF] successfully launched its inaugural project, “Re-Greening of Panay: Reforesting Philippines. One Island at a Time” on August 30, 2024.

Ms. Araceli Adrias, Vice Chairman, Sulu Garden Foundation, Inc. giving her welcome remarks.

In a show of support for this environmental initiative, a Memorandum of Agreement was also signed between the 301st “Bayanihan” Brigade and 61st “Hunter” Battalion led by BGen. Michael G. Samson & Lt. Col. Arthuro Balgos, and the Bureau of Fire Protection Region 6, headed by FSSupt. Bartolome O. Beliran.

The “Re-Greening of Panay” project by SGF aims to mitigate the effects of global warming by reforestation of an estimated 200,000 hectares of denuded timberland on the island of Panay. This is possible through the use of seedball technology comprising seeds of native trees that are encased in clay which helps safeguard the seeds from predation by rodents, birds, and grazing animals.

Left to right: Dr. Joel A. Araquil Sr. (Campus Administrator, West Visayas State University, College of Forestry), Mr. Jonathan Matias (Sulu Garden Foundation, Inc., Chairman, Hon. Macario Napulan (Vice Mayor of Miag-ao)

These seedballs are dispersed during the dry season. When rain begins, the clay dissolves, allowing the seeds to germinate in their new environment. SGF scientists have developed improved mechanical seedball production methods and lighter clay compositions, enabling faster dispersal by people and drone.

The members of the Philippine Army under the leadership of BGen. Michael G. Samson and supervision of LTC Arturo Balgos, Jr. of 61st Infantry Batallion helped during the field testing of this project.

“We may not see the immediate results, but at least we are part of the process of planting these seedballs that could potentially become the forests of tomorrow.”

BGen. Michael G Samson, PA

“In light of the recent alarming forest fires, there is a renewed and critical emphasis on reforesting the Panay region. The Bureau of Fire Protection’s Berongs Forest Preservation Program stands as a flagship initiative aimed at addressing the pressing need for reforestation. This program embodies a concerted effort to mitigate the adverse effects of deforestation and restore the ecological balance of the region.”

FSSupt. Bartolome O. Beliran, BFP

About SGF

Sulu Garden Foundation is named after the Sulu Sea – the largest inland sea in the Philippines. Our mission concentrates on this sea and the provinces that surround it. These provinces have diverse cultures and religions, yet, they all share history and traditions. The foundation has various programs and activities focused on history and heritage, the arts, nature conservation, research and development, and community.