Environment
Faith, Science, and Action Unite in Laudato Si-Inspired Tree Planting Event
By: Raymond Sucgang
Tangalan, Aklan- The Diocese of Kalibo Committee on Ecology, chaired by Rev. Fr. Jayvee Delos Santos, in collaboration with the OneLab team of the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Aklan State University-Makato Campus, Bicol University, Catanduanes State University, DENR-PENRO Aklan, and Sto. Niño Seminary, successfully conducted a Laudato Si-Inspired Environmental Awareness and Tree Planting Event on March 11, 2025.
The main site for the tree planting activity was Pudiot, Tangalan, Aklan, a Diocese-owned property designated for ecological initiatives. Additional tree planting was conducted at Napti Laboratory, the site beside the Mamburise resort in Mambuquiao, Batan, Aklan.
Guided by Pope Francis’ call for ecological conversion, the event brought together at least 45 participants, including students, researchers, and community members, all dedicated to environmental stewardship. The program featured discussions and reflections on sustainability, climate change, and the role of tree planting in ecological renewal.
Following the awareness session, participants took direct action by planting trees, symbolizing their commitment to protecting the environment for future generations. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of multi-sectoral involvement—combining faith, science, and education—in addressing today’s ecological challenges.
The Diocese of Kalibo and its partners hope this initiative will inspire more individuals and institutions to engage in meaningful ecological programs. As Pope Francis emphasized in Laudato Si’, “Living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue.”
Let’s care for our common home! 
