Bohol is greener by 50,000 trees which were planted in various towns through a province-wide tree planting activity spearheaded by the Catholic Church.
The seedlings of native trees and fruit-bearing trees were blessed in various churches on Sunday before parishionerswho brought the seeds to their respective areas for planting, according to Bishop Abet Uy of the Diocese of Tagbilaran.
The Diocese of Talibon under Bishop Daniel Patrick Parcon had 24,000 seedlings while the Diocese of Tagbilaran had 18,500 seedlings ready for planting, aside from the seedlings brought by the parishioners themselves.
The activity highlighted observance of the “Season of Creation” which kicked off on Saturday and will go on until October 4, the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of creation.
The seedlings were provided by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Bohol Island State University (BISU) and Bohol Environment Management Office (BEMO).
“Taking care of these trees to grow will be part of the parishioners’ commitment. Each family can bring at most two seedlings,” Uy said.
He said these trees will be for the next generation to learn the value of preserving the environment.
The church leaders encouraged the planting of trees like acasia, lawaan, nara, tugas and tipo, which commonly become “homes” for birds.
Fruit-bearing trees like lomboy, sereguelas and kaimito were also suggested for planting.