East Zone concessionaire Manila Water is reinforcing its commitment to promote environmental conservation as it leads the celebration of Philippine Arbor Day by conducting simultaneous tree planting activities in Metro Manila and various provincial locations served by its business units.

The kick-off event themed “Punong Puno ng Pag-asa” was held at the La Mesa Nature Reserve in Quezon City.

Manila Water President and CEO Jocot de Dios explained that this celebration is part the company’s continuing commitment to the Economic, Environmental, Social and Governance (EESG) initiatives. De Dios also added that it is very important in advocating for stronger stakeholder partnership as well as recognizing the need for collaboration with various partners, local government units and national government agencies in rehabilitating and regreening the environment to promote a healthier ecosystem for people.

Participants planted 400 new seedlings in the area surrounding the La Mesa Reservoir, which supplies treated water in many areas in Metro Manila’s east zone. It was capped off with a lecture on vermicomposting and Luntian Talks, which touched on many important points regarding environmental protection, tree planting, and its benefits to the watersheds.

The activity was attended by representatives from government agencies, government-owned and controlled corporation, private sectors, and schools. These include the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, National Water Resources Board, Quezon City LGU, ABS-CBN Foundation, Quezon City Science High School, and Brent International School. Their participation signify its strong partnership and commitment to champion sustainability.

For its part, Laguna Water, Clark Water, Boracay Water, Cebu Water, and Calbayog Water conducted separate tree planting activities in their respective business units in partnership with the local government units they serve.