As the country celebrates Arbor Day on Wednesday, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) renewed its call for Filipinos to take part in protecting Philippine forests and restoring degraded ecosystems.

In his Arbor Day message, Environment Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla underscored the vital role of trees in ensuring environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

“Arbor Day is more than a symbolic occasion; each tree planted is not only a lasting gift, it is an investment in the health, resilience, and future of our communities,” a statement sent by his office read.

“Today, we not only mark this occasion, we renew our shared commitment to protect our environment.”

In the Philippines, Arbor Day is celebrated every June 25 pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 643 and Republic Act 10176 or the Arbor Day Act of 2012.

The law encourages all citizens across all sectors of society to actively participate in tree planting and forest conservation efforts.

Various government agencies, local government units, and schools participate in the annual celebration by planting seedlings in parks, campuses, watersheds, and reforestation sites across the country.

The tradition of Arbor Day traces its roots to Nebraska, United States, where the first celebration took place in 1872 with the planting of more than 1 million trees.

The word “arbor” is Latin for tree, and Arbor Day is celebrated globally to recognize the value of trees in people’s lives and communities.

Lotilla said that while the DENR continues to implement reforestation, urban greening, and sustainable forest management through its Enhanced National Greening Program, the success of these initiatives depends on everyone’s participation, as the agency cannot do it alone.

“Lasting success depends on all of us, local governments, civil society, indigenous communities, and every citizen ready to plant, protect, and preserve,” he said.

Lotilla urged citizens to view trees not just as natural resources, but as a legacy of climate action that provides clean air, protects biodiversity, and serves as natural buffers against climate-related disasters.

He said growing forests that will outlive generations reflects commitment to the country’s climate resilience.

“Sa ating pagtutulungan, magtanim tayo ng kinabukasan, para sa bayan, para sa kalikasan, at para sa susunod na henerasyon (Through our collaboration, let’s plant a future, for the people, for the environment, and for the next generation).” (PNA)