Misamis University NSTP Grows 500 Narra Seedlings

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Misamis University NSTP Grows 500 Narra Seedlings ....

Bobby Alaman - MUCEP Staff

July 7, 2025 3:00 P.M.

Bobby Alaman - MUCEP Staff

July 7, 2025 3:00 P.M.

Misamis University NSTP Grows 500 Narra Seedlings

In response to the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental issues, Misamis University (MU) launched a series of tree-growing activities through its National Service Training Program (NSTP). It aimed to promote environmental stewardship among young leaders and contribute to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A total of 500 Narra seedlings (Pterocarpus indicus) were planted on the perimeter of the MU Farm, Barangay Capucao, Ozamiz City.

The initiative kicked off on March 15, 2025, headed by the NSTP Director, Dr. Virgilio H. Onganiza. As part of the NSTP's commitment under Republic Act 9163 (NSTP Act of 2001), the program provides students with practical, hands-on experiences that foster a deeper appreciation for environmental conservation and protection.

The second batch of the tree-growing activity was held on March 22, 2025, in celebration of World Water Day, which carried the global theme, "Glacier Preservation." The event localized this international theme through a proactive environmental action and a meaningful engagement of NSTP students, faculty, and staff. Before the tree-growing, a short discussion was facilitated by Forester Bobby B. Alaman, an NSTP Coordinator and MUCEP Staff. He highlighted the critical role of trees in climate regulation and sustaining water resources. For. Alaman noted, "Trees are vital in maintaining the water cycle and ensuring freshwater availability for communities.”

Dr. Virgilio H. Onganiza, the NSTP Director, pointed out that the activity is aligned with the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) directive to engage in environmental restoration efforts. Dr. Onganiza said, "This initiative is our tangible contribution to healing the Earth and securing its resources for future generations.”

To ensure that seedlings were properly planted, Dr. Oliver S. Talip, a faculty member from the College of Agriculture and Forestry, demonstrated proper seedling planting techniques. His briefing covered essential practices, including removing plastic bags, planting seedlings properly, loosening the soil with sawdust, and applying appropriate fertilizer. He also showed how to stake the seedlings using bamboo for protection, support, and growth.

As the national tree of the Philippines, a Narra grows up to 30 meters and has a diameter at breast height of more than 200 centimeters. It has durable lumber and ecological value by enriching the soil, sequestering carbon, and providing habitat for various wildlife species. The succeeding batches of NSTP classes visited the MU Farm for the tree-growing on March 29 and April 5.

This environmental initiative reflects the institution’s continued commitment to youth engagement towards environmental stewardship. By actively involving students in environmental actions, Misamis University cultivates a generation of responsible citizens who advocate for environmental sustainability.

Sincere appreciation and gratitude goes the following agencies, departments, and coordinators for the success of the program— Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) Ozamiz City, under the leadership of CENR Officer Dennis A. Juab and Deputy CENRO Ms. Elizabeth Gran, for providing the Narra seedlings; NSTP Coordinators Bobby B. Alaman, Robelyn Jane Tabil, Niel Jan T. Villondo, Lovely Estoce, Jizrel N. Serrano, Joel V. Cocolan, and Jame S. Bazar; NSTP Students from Engineering, Education, Medical Technology, Business Management, Nursing, Midwifery, Radiologic Technology, and Dentistry. The team thanks Dr. Karen Belina F. De Leon, MU President, for supporting the activities and providing transportation (MU bus).