By Xander Ledesma
Personnel from the Coast Guard Station Northern Negros Occidental participated in a motorcade and tree planting activity on December 1, 2024, at Gawahon Eco Park in Barangay XI, Victorias City. The event, themed “Tree-Growing Adventure, Riding for a Greener and Peaceful Tomorrow,” brought together local government agencies, uniformed personnel, and motorcycle groups to promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
The activity was organized by the 79th Infantry “Masaligan” Battalion of the Philippine Army in partnership with various stakeholders, including the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Local government representatives and motorcycle clubs also played a significant role in the event.
The day began with a motorcade through Victorias City, culminating at Gawahon Eco Park. The motorcade aimed to raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection while uniting participants under a shared commitment to sustainability.
At the eco park, participants planted hundreds of trees as part of ongoing efforts to combat deforestation and promote biodiversity. Coast Guard members, military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and local residents worked together to support the initiative, which is part of a broader campaign to address climate change and environmental degradation in the region.
Victoricas City Mayor Francis Frederick “Mar” Palanca, an advocate for sustainable development, actively participated in the event. He emphasized the importance of integrating environmental conservation into local development strategies, highlighting the tree planting activity as a vital step toward a greener and more resilient community.
The Gawahon Eco Park, known for its natural beauty and eco-tourism potential, served as a fitting venue for the event. The park represents the region’s commitment to preserving its natural resources while balancing environmental protection with tourism development.