Sumakses sa isang Libong Mangrove Trees

April 28, was indeed a "greenful" day for the Passionist Community as over 100 participants from the CMIP Youth and PSAC workers from the South Region parishes — namely Holy Cross Parish, St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, and Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish — joined forces and worked hand-in-hand to plant 1,000 𝘈𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘢 (bungalon) mangrove trees as part of the A Thousand Forests Campaign.

The activity commenced with an opening prayer led by Margarita Trinidad, followed by an inspirational message from our JPIC Ambassador, Fr. Julito S. Villarente, CP. Ma’am Saidah Sueb, President of the Lower Baluan Fisherfolk Association, warmly welcomed the group and expressed her gratitude to the Passionist Community for this initiative. This was followed by an orientation led by Mr. Rainier Tampus from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)–GenSan. As the low tide began, it signaled the official start of the planting activity.

It may have been a muddy experience, but as we stepped onto the coastal area, the joyful and determined hearts of the participants rose as high as mountains. The scorching sun did not hinder them from completing the day’s goal. With every seedling planted, participants lovingly said “Mabuhi ka ha?” — signifying high hopes and care for the mangroves to grow, thrive, and become protectors of our coasts in the near future. After reaching the goal, the participants left the area with smiles on their faces.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Parish Priests — Rev. Fr. Stanley D. Baldon, CP (Holy Cross Parish), Rev. Fr. Ramel S. Poqueta, CP (Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish), and Rev. Fr. Crisanto R. Dimaculangan, CP (St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish) — for sending their PSAC workers to join and support the cause. Special thanks also to Rev. Fr. Jeffty M. Mendez for sending the CMIP Youth Campers to participate in the event.

This visit was more than just an act of planting trees—it was a powerful gesture of sowing hope, nurturing a sense of responsibility, and reaffirming our calling as stewards of God’s creation.

Tara na! Mananom nata!