Governor Pamela Baricuatro has issued a groundbreaking environmental directive requiring mandatory tree planting for every cubic meter of mineral resources extracted in Cebu province. The order, announced on November 19, 2025, represents a significant step in the province's environmental protection efforts.
Comprehensive Environmental Directive
The governor's mandate specifically targets all quarry and mining permit holders across Cebu. Under the new requirements, operators must plant trees equivalent to each cubic meter of minerals extracted, covering both mining sites and adjacent communities. This initiative falls under Section 3 (c)(2) of Provincial Ordinance 2016-21, strengthening existing environmental regulations.
Beyond the tree planting requirement, the directive includes additional environmental measures. Permit holders must donate fruit-bearing plants and seedlings to provincial nurseries and establish proper drainage canals within their operational sites. The provincial government also encourages all local communities to participate in the tree-planting campaign.
Addressing Human-Induced Disasters
Aldwin Empaces, Cebu Provincial Assistant Administrator, emphasized the urgent need for these measures during the November 19 announcement. "The aftermath we experienced was truly a human-induced catastrophe," Empaces stated, referencing recent typhoon impacts. He clarified that while Typhoon Tino wasn't the strongest storm, excessive rainfall combined with environmental degradation led to severe flooding and landslides.
Empaces highlighted that the tree planting requirement extends beyond mining operators. "We require LGUs to really plant trees as there's already an existing ordinance, but it seems to have been forgotten," he explained. The initiative also encompasses all developers as part of their post-environmental work obligations.
Rebuilding with Environmental Focus
The tree-planting directive forms a crucial component of Governor Baricuatro's broader rebuilding and recovery strategy. The provincial government is conducting a comprehensive review of all existing ordinances and regulations to ensure strict enforcement and enhanced environmental protection.
Empaces outlined the forward-looking approach: "Moving forward, let's be together in making sure that whatever plans in the future don't just focus on infrastructure but include environment as well." The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) will lead implementation efforts, coordinating with all relevant departments.
Multiple Environmental Benefits
The extensive tree planting initiative offers numerous environmental advantages for Cebu province. Native trees particularly contribute to ecological balance through multiple mechanisms:
- Air purification and improved air quality
- Providing habitat for diverse species, especially birds
- Enhancing soil quality and preventing erosion
- Reducing landslide risks through root systems
- Absorbing excess water to minimize flooding
Expert studies confirm that trees significantly help absorb water, substantially reducing flood risks during heavy rainfall. Additionally, green spaces contribute to human health benefits, including stress reduction and improved mental wellbeing.
This comprehensive approach aims to create a more balanced ecosystem while preventing future environmental disasters that threaten human lives and communities throughout Cebu province.
