Growing for the future: VM Bebot Rodriguez leads Lambago Tree Growing Year 2

VICE Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, in collaboration with the 2nd District Congressional Office of Cong. Rufus Rodriguez and the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO), conducted the second year of the Lambago Tree Growing activity at the Tibasak-Balulang Riverside on August 14, 2024.

This annual initiative is part of the Higalaay Festival, which underscores the city’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainability.

The Lambago Tree Growing initiative is not just a symbolic green gesture; it aligns with Vice Mayor Bebot’s proposed ordinance on Carbon Offsetting and Neutrality, also known as "One Million Trees Rising in Cagayan de Oro." The proposed ordinance, according to the lady vice mayor, is a proactive response to pressing environmental challenges, particularly climate change.

"My proposed ordinance (One Million Trees) may seem impossible, but if we work together and start planting trees now, we can achieve this for a greener future," Vice Mayor Rodriguez stated during the event.

This year, 360 Lambago seedlings were planted—significantly surpassing the number planted during the initiative’s first year. The Lambago tree, deeply rooted in the history of Cagayan de Misamis, plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion along riverbanks, thus serving as a natural defense against flooding.

The event received strong support from CLENRO, led by Engr. Armen Cuenca and represented by Assistant Department Head Ms. Elvisa Mabelin. Participants in this year’s tree-growing activity included students and faculty from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP), Capitol University, Lourdes College, and COC-Phinma. The Cagayan Federation of People’s Organization (CAFEDPO), the Cagayan de Oro Hotel and Restaurant Association (COHARA) led by President Jeffrey Limbonhai, the CDO Travel and Tours Association headed by President Mika Mora, the Public Attorney’s Office, RTA, CDRRMD, and PNP also joined in the effort.

This activity not only strengthens community involvement but also serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to preserve and protect Cagayan de Oro's natural resources for future generations.