LUBAO, Pampanga — Officials and employees from various government agencies and the academe, led by the Municipal Government here, marked the town’s 3rd Arbor Day celebration on Friday at the Lubao Bamboo Hub and Eco-Park in Barangay Sta. Catalina here.
Close to 300 individuals planted bamboo propagules along the path planned to become a trail for biking aficionados and joggers.
Personnel from the municipal hall, led by Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab, along with representatives from the provincial offices of the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry Pampanga, Department of Education division office, Bureau of Fire Protection, Commission on Elections, Philippine National Police and other national government agencies trooped to the bamboo hub at 7 a.m. for the tree-planting proper.
The tree-planting activity was followed by a mass at the eco-park officiated by Rev. Fr. Ted Valencia and a program to acknowledge representatives who took part in the event.
Engr. Danilo Aquino, concurrent municipal environment and natural resources officer, said the municipal government has chosen to plant bamboo because of its numerous usage, most especially its ability to sequester carbon dioxide in the air.
Lubao has already planted thousands of bamboo propagules in the area since 2011 and many have grown into thick shrubs that are now protecting the area from erosion.
The bamboo hub has also become a go-to place for families and friends wanting to relax and commune with nature. — Albert B. Lacanlale