A massive tree planting project of native species is in the works to enhance the biodiversity of the Paoay Lake National Park, a protected landscape in the province of Ilocos Norte.

Spanning around 340 hectares, the park encompasses a freshwater lake surrounded by diverse habitats that support a wide array of flora and fauna, including endemic bird species, aquatic life, and native vegetation.

In an interview on Thursday, Rhoel Marcelo, ecosystem management specialist at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Ilocos Norte, said about 5,000 native tree seedlings are expected to be planted in the next two years to restore degraded habitats, stabilize soil and water systems, and create microhabitats for wildlife in designated areas.

“The Pag-asang Luntian para sa Paoay Lake project offers a significant opportunity to enhance the biodiversity, ecological integrity, and overall health of Paoay Lake National Park,” he told the Philippine News Agency.

“By planting native trees, establishing an arboretum, and engaging the local community, this project will contribute to a more sustainable and resilient ecosystem for future generations,” Marcelo added.

Marcelo said the project is envisioned to become a model for similar conservation initiatives in other parts of the Philippines.

Trees are vital not only to support local biodiversity but also to improve water quality by filtering runoff and reducing sedimentation, while acting as natural buffers against climate extremes, Marcelo said.

Among the native trees being considered to be planted around the lake include narra, molave, supa, palosapis, dungon, kamagog, white lauan, yakal, bitaog, banaba, ipil, and guijo.

On Aug. 4, 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12230 declaring the Paoay Lake Protected Landscape for better management and appropriate funding.

With the signing, a Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) was created composed of the DENR regional executive director, governor, senators who are registered residents of Ilocos Norte, representative of the congressional district where the Paoay Lake Protected Landscape is located, and the Paoay mayor, among others. (PNA)