CPSU, in collaboration with Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), has launched a significant greening initiative as part of the University's broader campaign to revive biodiversity in its reservation area. The joint effort aims to cultivate one million assorted fruit-bearing seedlings under the project's banner name, "1 Million Trees and Counting."

The collaboration was underscored by the recent turnover of 1,000 solar lanterns, out of a total of 3,000, last December 13, 2023, at the RDEC Building, CPSU Main Campus. The event, presided over by Dr. Aladino Moraca, CPSU President, and Mr. Andy Cosculluela, NWTF Head, symbolizes the commencement of this impactful partnership.

As it initially take-off, the identified participants are the households within the University’s reservation area including the farmer communities, and colleges, as well as its 9 other extension campuses to expedite the realization of the said activity. This comprehensive approach ensures the swift implementation of the tree-planting initiative.

In the said trade-off, participating households commit to planting 300 seedlings in exchange for one solar lantern. This initiative particularly targets off-grid households in electricity-deprived zones. Concurrently, the deans of each College have expressed their support, affirming their commitment to integrating the tree-growing activity into their respective community extension programs.

Dr. Moraca stated that amid today's crisis, this engagement is a sustainable move towards food security and the production of safe and healthy food, alongside boosting livelihood opportunities for economic alleviation of these underserved sectors. In the same vein, it is envisioned to bring back biodiversity to the entire community.

“This is part of the initiative of the University to assist farmers in their access to electricity while also propagating fruit trees to create wider opportunities by boosting the supply of fruits in the local market. This is also in response to the commitment of the community and the farmers to support the environment-driven programs of the school at their maximum capacity,” Dr. Moraca said.

As the engagement is set to gain momentum, the collaborative effort of all the parties reflect a concerted push toward environmental sustainability and community development.

Among those present to witness the event were Dr. Jimmy Degillo, Director of Extension and Community Services Office (ECSO), Dr. Maryvic Pedrosa, Director for Production and Enterprise Development, Ms. Bella Supe, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Ms. Shiela Ignacio, Dean of the College of Business and Management, Dr. Merfe Hucalinas, Dean of the College of Teacher Education, Engr. Kris Montinola, Dean of the College of Engineering, and Dr. Hanzel Pedrosa, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Forestry, among others.

By: J.A. Emoy

Photos: J. Degillo