Save the Trees!

By Kris Jean Cabana, Hannah Mae Catong and Reinah Candido, first year Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, University of San Jose Recoletos in Cebu City.

Try to look at a world without trees, or a place where there is no green to be seen. Can people live or deal with it? Matters regarding the cutting of the so-called century-old acacia trees in Carcar, Cebu is a famous topic now that took the attention of many. These trees are saved by the people living in the area, acacias along the road do not only show how beautiful your view in your trip can be, but they serve as part of the history of Carcar. In relation to this, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) planned to cut down these acacia trees for a road widening from the south to the north basically, project purposes by the government.

There have been actions of protest trying to stop the project. There are multiple environmentally-concerned individuals (including online petitioners) not just the people residing in Carcar, but also everyone in Cebu are raising their hands for the saving of trees. This is due to the eagerness of their voices to be heard. At the end of the day, we, who do not have enough power, can’t make the final decision concerning the issue. Only those who have the power to decide can do so and we have to follow.

Since, we still have the chance now to to protect the trees from being cut, then we have to take action. We must engage ourselves and in participate in environmental matters for it is the foundation for future generations. People need to start now, not tomorrow or the day after tomorrow or afterwards. We need not wait for our trees to be depleted. We cannot wait until there are no more trees. They are waving at us for they need our help. We have to wave back at them. How about you?

Let us pray for the betterment of our nation and make this endeavor a success.

Everyone must be an advocate!