MT. SAMAT, Pilar, Bataan, Philippines - In an effort to contribute to the protection of the forests in the province of Bataan, the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bataan led by the provincial director conducted tree-planting along the foot of the historic Mt. Samat shrine. The tree-planting was held in the mountainous area of Batangas 3, Barangay Liyang, Pilar town. Several uniformed personnel of the Bataan Police Provincial Office armed with shovels, rake and other tools participated in the event with the hope of contributing to the campaign to save the environment from further degradation.
They planted 150 seedlings of mango and 18 seedlings of eucalyptus trees. Agriculturists projected the growth of a mango tree at about five to seven years while 10 to 15 years is the expected growth of the eucalyptus tree. Bataan police chief Senior Supt. Arnold Gunnacao said the activity was meant to spur Bataan residents to join hands in the campaign against illegal logging and demonstrate the police commitment towards environmental protection. He said the Bataan PNP is also taking steps in protecting the province's forested areas by apprehending illegal loggers while engaging in activities that promote reforestation.
