Cimatu orders inventory of Baguio pine trees

BAGUIO CITY — Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu on Saturday ordered an ecosystem research to extend the life of Benguet pine tree species.

“I am really worried that Baguio is losing its pine trees. This is the city’s trademark that is why I alerted my staff in the DENR and Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) to conduct an ecosystem research, specifically on pine trees to extend its life span,” Cimatu said on the sidelines of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) alumni homecoming.

In the past, Cimatu said those who visit the city immediately smell the scent of pines which is missing these days.

The study will start with the inventory of pine trees and gave persons concerned a month to come up with results.

Cimatu has instructed the DENR in the Cordillera to immediately start the counting of trees so the agency could take steps to preserve and protect the trees and assured that the research will not lead to the issuance of an order to rehabilitate the city.

“Honestly, there is no directive for the rehabilitation of Baguio. We are still focusing in Boracay since we still have a year to fully rehabilitate it. And now we are rehabilitating Manila Bay so Baguio is not yet subject for rehabilitation,” he said.

“The pine tree inventory will pave the way for the DENR and WWRRC to come up with an ecosystem research to check the status of pine trees in Baguio,” he said.

The environment chief said he will also send scientists specializing in landslides and climate change to conduct a research and come up with measures during calamities. (PNA)