Yesterday, we set out to the beautiful Sitio Kawan in Morong, Bataan to be part of the second leg of PTT’s nature-driven project called “Gas Up For a Tree” where we were joined by some 300 volunteers including our good friends from PinoyTravelBlog, Raffy Pedrajita and Mary Grace Calumag.
“Gas Up For a Tree” is just one of many social and environmental initiatives of PTTPFI’s (PTT Philippines Foundation, Inc.) to improve livelihood of the locals and sustain biodiversity in countries where they operate. The project aims to rehabilitate the thinning greeneries of Sitio Kanawan which serves as a refuge to the Magbukun Aeta Tribe.
The reforestation drive is currently on its first phase where the goal is to revive 40% of the 50-hectare land by planting various trees like Apitong, Lawaan and Narra. As part of the project, the Magbukun Aetas, who will nurture and protect these newly-planted trees, will also be provided with livelihood.
After the first phase, the foundation plans to reforest the other 30 hectares of area. This completes their goal of planting 10,000 trees in the area by the 23rd of August this year. PTTPFI is looking to achieve this with the help of various local and private sectors including the Municipality of Morong, BPSU (Bataan Peninsula State University), DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources), NCIP (National Commission for Indigenous People), NRCP (National Research Council of the Philippines), Mga Bayani ng Kalikasan, BCDA (Bases Conversion Development Authority) and Wide Out Technology.
You can also be part of this Green project by patronizing PTT’s diesel/gasoline products. For every Php200 purchase, you get (1) one leaf sticker for your “Gas Up For a Tree” coupon. Five (5) stickers, or a single receipt worth Php1,000 entitles you a tree which will be planted by PTT in Bataan National Park. Oh and you get to name that tree too!
For more information about the “Gas Up For a Tree” project, you can head over to the nearest PTT gas station or also check out PTT Philippines’ official website.
