With a target to plant five million trees across key provinces, the initiative is projected to sequester 3.5 million tons of carbon by 2038, supporting national climate mitigation efforts.
Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga emphasized that reforestation plays a critical role in safeguarding watersheds, controlling floods and landslides, and improving biodiversity.
“The restoration of our forests is an urgent climate action strategy,” said Loyzaga. “It secures our water supply and fortifies our defenses against natural disasters.”
Initial pilot sites include Ilocos Norte, Rizal, Leyte, Bataan, Bukidnon, and Lanao del Norte, with activities beginning in 2025. These will include site preparation, seedling production, and partner mobilization. Maintenance and protection will follow through 2028, along with program monitoring and evaluation.
The initiative embraces a whole-of-society approach, involving LGUs, national agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and communities. Contributions will range from financial support to technical expertise, monitoring systems, and grassroots engagement.
Priority tree species include both dipterocarps (Yakal-Saplungan, Palosapis) and non-dipterocarps (Dao, Kalumpit, Antipolo, Banlag, etc.), selected for their ecological value and adaptability.
Part of the broader Expanded National Greening Program, Forests For Life will also help rehabilitate 15,508 hectares of degraded land and maintain over 44,000 hectares of reforested areas.
“Our forests and watersheds are our first line of defense against climate change,” Loyzaga added. “Through science-driven strategies and strong collaboration, we are turning resilience into reality.” — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
