Nurturing a Greener MU CARES with MOVE's Tree Growing Activity
The Misamis Occidental Volunteers for Environment (MOVE) - Misamis University Chapter conducted a tree growing activity at the Misamis University Center for Advocacy, Research, and Extension Services (MU CARES) Facility at Fertig Hills, Hoyohoy, Tangub City on November 16, 2024. It was participated by MU student-volunteers, facilitators, a representative from Hoyohoy Barangay Council, and Dr. Orlando D. De Leon, the MU Special Assistant to the President.
MU CARES, situated at the buffer zone of Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park (MMRNP), overlooks Ozamiz, Tangub, and Panguil Bay. It is one of the facilities of Misamis University with the goals of (1) establishing a center for advocacy research and extension services in Misamis Occidental; (2) utilizing the area for research related to MMRNP; (3) setting up a demo farm on organic agro-based farming in Misamis Occidental; and (4) growing a mini-plantation of endemic species.
Despite the intermittent rain, the team planted 50 Syzygium rubrovenium seedlings, commonly called as Polayo. It is a Philippine endemic tree species that provides food and medicinal value to the ecosystem. These seedlings were sourced from the City Government of Oroquieta under the dynamic leadership of Hon. Lemwel Meyric M. Acosta through Dr. Maynard C. Bongcayao from the Oroquieta City Environment and Natural Resources Office.
MOVE, through the advisory of the Misamis University Community Extension Program (MUCEP), was welcomed by Dr. Orlando D. De Leon, Special Assistant to the President. Dr. De Leon mentioned that the MOVE volunteers are the first batch of students to visit the facility.
Vicvan Jerken Badal, current MOVE President, narrated his experience as challenging yet rewarding. "The uneven ground increases the risk of slips and falls, making it harder for us to carry materials and plant trees securely. Despite these challenges, planting trees for our environment is a sense of unity and shared responsibility for the environment. This activity is one of the most impactful actions we can take to protect our planet."
MOVE is grateful for the support of Engr. De Carol Lyn C. Abinales (Tangub City Department of Public Work and Highway) for the provision of vehicles; Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Protected Area Management Office; Hon. Sabiniano M. Canama (Mayor, Tangub City); Hon. Donde Fiel (Hoyohoy Barangay Captain) and Council; MOVE Alumni (MU and LSU Chapter); EnP. Grace V. Villanueva (MUCEP Director); and Dr. Karen Belina F. De Leon.
The organization also recognizes the event benefactors— May Noreen Nanud, Marymar Lahoylahoy, Dr. Gilda Ilusorio, Maureen Logronio, Emmarie Mapi-ot, Grace V. Villanueva, Robelyn Jane Tabil, Mark Anthony Manapsal, Jonas Hingco, and Dr. Yunalyn L. Villantes
The tree growing activity was one of the activities for MOVE’s Hugpong (a Cebuano word translated as gathering) last November 16-17, 2024. The organization set up a camping area at the Hoyohoy Barangay Hall. The Search for Mr. Kalikasan, Induction of Officers, and community games are part of the Hugpong with the participation of the Hoyohoy residents. MOVE students and alumni went on a river trekking adventure the following day. It was an unforgettable experience for MOVE volunteers as they reconnect and recharge with nature.