Visayas trees now in print

By DONNA LAVARES, RAFI intern
July 30, 2013

CEBU CITY – Despite a sudden downpour last July 24, guests from across Cebu Province witnessed the unveiling of the first publication that compiles Philippine trees in the Visayas region and aims to provide comprehensive information about these indigenous tree species.

Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) launched the Manual on Native Trees in the Visayas at the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center, Cebu City. The manual is a compilation of 101 Philippine native trees found in the Visayas.

The trees are grouped alphabetically according to the family classification each belongs to, and presented with descriptions that include their official names, scientific names, local names, methods of propagation and uses. Also included are practical tips on how to plant a seedling and how to nurture it to full growth. A glossary is provided to help readers in understanding technical words.

The book launching was attended by Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale, mayors from different municipalities of Cebu Province, and representatives from various government agencies, civic organizations, and academic institutions all over Cebu.

Dominica Chua, RAFI chief operating officer, and Magpale formally presented Manual of Native Trees in the Visayas to the public through an unveiling of an enlarged version of the book cover.

Free copies of the book were given to identified guests and partners.

“RAFI has special preference for native trees due to their many benefits to surrounding flora and fauna,” Chua stressed.

During the program, a presentation of the results of this year's Run 2 Plant 4 GREENING Philippines was also done by Marge Gravador, executive director of RAFI's Integrated Development unit.

The free running and indigenous tree planting event was held simultaneously in over 40 municipalities of the Province of Cebu last June 29.

Another initiative of RAFI in promoting biodiversity conservation is the RAFI Native Trees Nursery in Barangay Busay, Cebu City. The nursery houses 200,000 seedlings of 218 native tree species.

Manual on Native Trees in the Visayas was conceptualized to contribute to the achievement of Goal 7 of the Millennium Development Goals, which is to ensure environmental sustainability by reversing the loss of environmental resources.

Copies of the book are sold at P2,500 each at the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center, 35 Lopez Jaena St., Cebu City. Interested buyers may contact (6332) 418-7234 loc. 515 and look for Noel Fornolles.