An estimate of 300 species were planted in Brgy. Looc, Cabucgayan Biliran during the Tree Planting activity in the Kalahi-funded Rainforestation sub-project on June 20, 2019. The tree planting activity was participated by the Regional Program Management Office Kalahi CIDSS (RPMO Kalahi CIDSS) and DSWD staff as part of the Kalahi CIDSS month celebration for the 16 years of program implementation.

            Some of the species planted were Anabiong, Anagasi, Anilao, Antipolo, Apatot, Bagtikan, Bahai, Balobo, Banuy, Batikuling, Batino, Bitanghol, Dao, Dita, Kalumpit, Kamagong, Lamio, Mangasinoro, Molave, Mt.Agoho, Narig, Narra, Palosapis, White Lauan, Yakal, Yakal Malibato and Yakal Saplungan. According to partner VISCA’s recommendation, these are species which are ideal for landslide areas.

The planting of tree symbolizes not just an investment for the future of our planet but also a celebration of triumph of the success of community empowerment, participation transparency, and accountability harvested in the communities for 16 years of Community-Driven Development implementation in Region VIII.

              Also, the tree planting activity symbolizes the evolution of the Kalahi CIDSS program from National Community-Driven Development Program (NCDDP) to Kapangyarihan at kaunlaran sa Barangay (KKB) Local Government Unit-led implementation. A hope of growth is implanted along with the planting of trees akin  to the aspiration of the continuing increase number of people most especially the poor and vulnerable sectors being involved in sustainable development.

              Barangay Sub-project Project Management Committee Chairperson Elmer Bantusila emphasized how susceptible Cabucgayan has been to landslide. As a result of the Participatory Situational Analysis, the community has identified Rainforestation as their sub-project to help them address their long-time problem.

            On the other hand, Deputy Regional Program Manager Gerardo Peneda said that in behalf of DSWD OIC Regional Director Yvonne Abonales and Kalahi CIDSS Regional Program Coordinator Natividad Sequito, the Kalahi CIDSS and DSWD staff will continue to  support the reforestation in Cabucgayan. He is pleased that the tree planting activity was conducted during the Kalahi month celebration.

              Kalahi-funded Rainforestation sub-project are implemented in eight barangays of Cabucgayan benefiting 2,905 household beneficiaries.