By Kenneth Marcos 
In the warm morning air of Calamba, Laguna, officials from two DENR regional offices gathered around a single table, united by one purpose: to secure more spaces where new trees can grow. For many communities in Metro Manila facing rising heat and shrinking green spaces, this move offers a glimmer of hope.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) and DENR CALABARZON have finalized a Memorandum of Agreement that will allow NCR to use selected National Greening Program (NGP) sites in CALABARZON for tree-planting and seedling replacement. The agreement was completed during a coordination meeting held in Calamba.
The discussion was led by DENR CALABARZON Regional Executive Director Nilo B. Tamoria, together with Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services and Regional NGP Coordinator Eriberto B. Saños. Representing NCR were Conservation and Development Division Chief Forester Aida Esguerra and Regional NGP Coordinator Forester Arturo Calderon.
According to the DENR, the partnership responds to two growing challenges in Metro Manila: the increase in tree-cutting permit applications and the lack of suitable planting areas within the region. Under DENR Administrative Order 2012-02, individuals or companies permitted to cut or relocate trees must replace them based on a uniform replacement ratio. With limited open spaces in NCR, many permitees struggle to comply.
Through the new agreement, CALABARZON will designate certain graduated NGP sites where NCR permitees can carry out their required seedling replacement. This means more trees can be planted in protected and managed areas, while also easing the pressure on NCR’s limited land.
The approved MOA outlines clear responsibilities for both regions, including coordination procedures, monitoring systems, and reporting guidelines. Officials said these measures are designed to ensure that replanting efforts are systematic, transparent, and sustainable.
The cooperation is expected to strengthen both reforestation and urban greening programs. For Metro Manila, this may help increase green cover and improve air quality over time. For CALABARZON, additional tree-planting activities can support watershed protection, reduce soil erosion, and enhance the long-term health of forest ecosystems.
During the closing of the meeting, DENR-NCR expressed gratitude to their CALABARZON counterparts for providing additional planting sites. They described the agreement as a crucial step toward improving compliance with national policies and a model of regional teamwork for climate resilience.
As the country continues to face environmental pressures—from rapid urban development to climate-driven disasters—officials emphasized the importance of expanding forests and protecting natural landscapes. By working together, both regions aim to leave future generations with cleaner air, healthier forests, and a more resilient environment.
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