In celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Government Service Insurance System – General Santos City Office, a tree-growing activity was successfully conducted as part of the municipality’s ongoing Watershed Protection and 1 Million Trees Initiative.
The activity was initiated and funded by the GSIS General Santos Branch Office, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Polomolok under the leadership of Mayor Bernie D. Palencia, through its Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), with support from Mahintana Foundation Inc. through its Ridge-to-Reef Program.
The initiative mobilized more than 150 participants from various partner institutions and community groups, including GSIS General Santos City, headed by Manager Nea Beruar; the Bureau of Fire Protection–Polomolok; the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, represented by Mr. Roy Salud; the Christian School of Polomolok, represented by Ms. Decel Labanero; the Local Government Unit of Polomolok, represented by Mr. Rhyolite A. Balili; the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Maligo, represented by Hon. Marcelo Ermita, Barangay Councilor; and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), represented by Mr. Eupee Zainal Abedin, along with members of the Barangay Maligo community.
Through collective action, participants successfully planted 500 hills of bamboo and assorted tree seedlings, contributing to the municipality’s long-term strategy for watershed rehabilitation, climate resilience, and sustainable environmental management.
This collaborative effort underscores the importance of public–private partnerships and community participation in safeguarding vital natural resources and strengthening local environmental stewardship.
Together, we continue to cultivate a greener and more resilient future for all.
