OVER the years the lush forests of Iloilo have been significantly diminished. In response, the provincial government launched an ambitious tree-planting campaign, “Tanum Iloilo”, aiming to plant 1.5 million trees annually. The goal is to restore the province’s forests and contribute to the global fight against climate change.
However, recent data from the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) reveals a sobering reality: only 48 percent of the seedlings planted between 2020 and 2022 have survived. Clearly, planting trees is not enough; ensuring their survival is most important.
The mere act of planting millions of seedlings is insufficient if less than half survive. Trees take years, even decades, to mature and provide their full range of ecological benefits, such as carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, and habitat provision. A seedling that dies within its first two years, as noted by PGENRO’s senior environmental management specialist Mitzi Peñaflorida, is a lost opportunity, a wasted resource. Therefore, the success of tree-planting initiatives should be measured not by the number of seedlings planted but by the number of trees that thrive into maturity.
Several factors contribute to the low survival rate of tree seedlings. These include inadequate care, poor site selection, insufficient watering, and susceptibility to diseases. To address these, it would be wise for the provincial government of Iloilo to explore strategies such as engaging accredited organizations and private sectors to adopt and nurture forest sites. This encourages a sense of ownership and long-term commitment to forest restoration efforts. Consistent monitoring and maintenance ensure that seedlings receive the care they need to survive and grow.
Another vital aspect of successful reforestation is the selection of tree species. Planting native trees is wiser; they are better adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them more resilient to environmental stressors. They also support local biodiversity by providing habitat and food for native wildlife. In contrast, non-native species can become invasive, outcompeting local flora and disrupting ecosystems.
The “Tanum Iloilo” program is a good contribution of the provincial government to environmental restoration and climate action. But a shift in focus from quantity to quality is necessary if it were to realize its full potential and achieve a sustainable and thriving forest landscape in Iloilo.
