THE PHILIPPINE Eagle Foundation (PEF) in collaboration with the Globe Group recently launched “Planting for the Future” to raise funds and plant three million trees as part of the effort to restore the national bird’s habitat.
The unveiling of the project campaign was held at the Philippine Eagle Center, Malagos, on March 8, and graced by representatives from Ayala Land, Inc., PK Holdings, Enchanted Kingdom, and the Pegsabeka Band.
In his speech, PEF executive director Dennis Salvador said the Planting for the Future program is not just simple regreening as PEF will be involved throughout every stage of reforestation, from the propagation and selection of seedlings to the maintenance of mature trees.
“As of 2020, the country is down to less than 24% of its original forest cover. These reforestation efforts are not meant just to benefit the Philippine eagle, the program is set to benefit other wildlife species, to make up the local environmental ecosystem,” Salvador said.
He also highlighted how the program contributes to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ goal of reforesting two million hectares by 2028, as well as the national government’s forest restoration target as outlined in the Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
The three million trees aims to rehabilitate 1,200 hectares of degraded land close to nine Philippine eagle nesting sites through both restoration and agroforestry initiatives, located across four provinces of Mindanao: Bukidnon, Cotabato, Davao de Oro, and Davao del Sur.
In the same way, Felicia Atienza, PEF president and board of trustees hoped with the continuing deforestation in the country, the program “will contribute to reversing this trend, and doing it in a way that is incredible, impact-driven, and transparent.”
Jayson Ibanez, PEF director for operations, also shared how the project makes use of a comprehensive database and tracking system that will be accessible to funders. This system, available at www.threemilliontrees.com/track, combines GIS and GPS-based technology to provide real-time updates on the progress of adopted plants, from their initial nursery care to ongoing monitoring efforts.
Ibanez said every nursery seedling is assigned a unique QR code for its centralized monitoring process.
“These codes serve as identifiers and are scanned regularly using a dedicated web application. Through this method, the system updates information on tree growth and characteristics, allowing for precise monitoring of each tree’s development,” Ibanez said.
He added the program will also benefit the indigenous people communities, providing at least 150 jobs and hiring staff to conduct nursery, planting, maintenance, and monitoring operations.
They will also get additional livelihood opportunities from harvesting the produce of fruit-bearing trees, Ibanez stressed.
Meanwhile, Globe offers convenient options for donations through GCash, which will also be made available soon through the GlobeOne app, GCash is used for cash donations, and Globe customers can soon also convert their Globe Rewards points into donations via the GlobeOne app (a reward point is equivalent to P1).
Liza Reyes, Globe Group director for public relations and communications, noted how the advancement of technology might make it easier for the people who support these causes by harnessing the power of our digital platforms.
“Through Globe Rewards and GCash, we are providing these convenient options and channels for donations, whether in converting your Rewards Points into Donations or making a Cash Donation through GCash. We are reaffirming our commitment to sustainability and saving the Philippine eagle’s habitat,” she said.
For GCash donations, visit https://www.philippineeaglefoundation.org/donate-capital-campaign and scan the QR Code using the GCash app.
To donate via Globe Rewards, users can download the app on their mobile device via Globe Rewards – Earn Points, Enjoy Perks, Redeem Rewards, access the app and click the “Rewards” banner, then look for the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) under the “Donations” tab.
Photos from Philippine Eagle Foundation
