The Green Environment Movement (GEM), one of the recognized student societies of Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP) under the Office of Wesleyan External Systems, Connections, Opportunities, and Partnerships (WESCOP), spearheaded a tree planting activity held in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija on October 21, 2025, reflecting the University’s continuous commitment to environmental conservation, community engagement, and sustainable development.

The event was conducted in collaboration with WESCOP personnel, extension coordinators, and advisers, with the support of the Gabaldon Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO). Together, they planted fifty (50) narra (𝘗𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘱𝘶𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘴) tree seedlings across designated areas, symbolizing unity and shared responsibility in protecting the planet.

This tree-planting activity was aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through this initiative, participants contributed to mitigating the effects of climate change, promoting biodiversity, and strengthening partnerships between educational institutions and local government units for a common environmental cause.

The activity also served as an avenue to foster awareness among students and staff about the importance of environmental stewardship. It encouraged the Wesleyan community to be active in addressing ecological challenges and in adopting sustainable practices in their daily lives.

The GEM remained steadfast in its mission to promote environmental sustainability through advocacy, action, and collaboration. By conducting activities such as this, GEM would continue to inspire others to plant hope for the future—one tree at a time.

The organizers expressed their sincere gratitude to WESCOP, Gabaldon-MENRO, and all participants and volunteers for their invaluable support and participation. Their collective effort embodied the Wesleyan spirit of service and dedication to building a greener, healthier, and more sustainable world.

Article by Christian Navarro
Photos courtesy of WESCOP and GEM