DENR, Private Sector Partner to Plant 5 Million Trees by 2028

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has partnered with private corporations and non-government organizations (NGOs) to plant five million trees across the Philippines by 2028. This ambitious project aims to combat deforestation, mitigate climate change, and promote environmental sustainability. The initiative is part of the country’s ongoing National Greening Program (NGP) and will be implemented in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) and local communities.

Public-Private Collaboration for Sustainability

According to a report from The Manila Times, the DENR is working with private sector stakeholders who have pledged funding, logistics, and manpower for the project. Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized that government efforts alone are not enough to restore the country's forest cover. Private sector involvement is crucial in ensuring the long-term success of the initiative.

“This project is not just about planting trees, but about fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. We need everyone’s help—from businesses to schools and local communities—to ensure these trees survive and grow,” Yulo-Loyzaga stated.

Target Locations and Implementation

As reported by Manila Standard, the initiative will prioritize reforestation in critical areas such as watersheds, degraded forestlands, and urban green spaces. These locations have been identified based on their vulnerability to environmental degradation, flooding, and soil erosion.

DepEd is also playing a key role in the project by integrating tree-planting activities into school programs. According to The Chronicle, students will participate in tree-planting drives, helping to instill environmental awareness and responsibility among the youth. Schools and local communities will be tasked with the maintenance and care of the trees to ensure long-term survival.

Furthermore, the project will emphasize biodiversity by planting native tree species rather than fast-growing exotic varieties. Experts have highlighted the importance of planting indigenous species such as narra, molave, and yakal, which are more resilient and beneficial to local ecosystems.

Climate Change Mitigation and Ecological Benefits

The five-million-tree project aligns with the Philippines’ commitment to reducing carbon emissions under the Paris Agreement. Trees act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing harmful greenhouse gases and helping mitigate the effects of global warming. According to a report from the Philippine News Agency (PNA), increasing forest cover is essential in improving air quality, preventing landslides, and restoring lost biodiversity.

Beyond environmental benefits, the initiative will also provide economic opportunities for local communities. Residents, particularly farmers and indigenous groups, will be employed in seedling production, tree planting, and forest maintenance. This ensures that reforestation efforts not only protect the environment but also support sustainable livelihoods.

Long-Term Commitment to Reforestation

The DENR has set a target tree survival rate of at least 80%, with regular monitoring and maintenance programs in place. The government has also urged more companies, organizations, and individuals to participate in the initiative.

With a strong commitment from both the public and private sectors, this large-scale tree-planting project aims to create lasting environmental change, ensuring a greener and healthier future for the Philippines.

Sources:

• https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/03/22/business/top-business/private-partners-tapped-to-plant-5m-trees-by-2028/2077790
• https://manilastandard.net/news/314571198/denr-aims-to-plant-5m-trees-by-2028.html
• https://thechronicle.com.ph/denr-deped-and-other-private-sector-launch-5m-tree-planting-project/
• https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246572