CEBU, Philippines — The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) announced yesterday that it has over half a million free seedlings available for environmental warriors, tree loving-individuals, schools, companies and group volunteers who want to contribute to Metro Cebu’s water security efforts. Newlyweds who wish to seal their marriage by planting a tree are also welcome.

In a statement, MCWD said that the rainy season marks the start of the tree-growing activities as the planting sites are rain-fed. Trees, especially those in Cebu’s watershed areas, help ensure the recharge of water sources amid a supply shortage in Metro Cebu. They also prevent erosion and provide cleaner air.

MCWD’s four seedling nursery sites in Jaclupan, Talisay City, Buot and Talamban in Cebu City and 10 barangays in Liloan have a combined yield of 562,603 seedlings.

“As a responsible water utility, the distribution of free seedlings has been part of MCWD’s programs to raise public awareness on the value of trees in water supply security for Metro Cebu,” the statement read.

It added that the water demand is now at about 400,000 cubic meters per day while the production of MCWD is only about 238,000 cubic meters per day, resulting in areas with water services of less than 24 hours and a water supply shortage during the dry spell.

Interested stakeholders in water supply security may call 254-8434 to reserve seedlings or to inquire about possible tree planting sites.

MCWD also holds free orientation and events promoting tree growing.

Aside from the free seedlings and providing the sites, MCWD also prepares the planting area by digging the holes ahead of schedule and brings the seedlings to the planting site, making the activities fun and easy even for young volunteers. (FREEMAN)

 

News Credit: FREEMAN