14K volunteers plant 20K seedlings in Koronadal's tree growing festival

KORONADAL CITY - About 20,000 trees have been simultaneously planted by more than 14,000 individuals during Koronadal City's 5th Tree Growing Festival Monday, officials said.Most of those who participated in the activity were students and government workers in the city, according to Mayor Peter Miguel.Miguel said he really appreciated the determination of the volunteers who walked for kilometers, crossed rivers and climb hills to plant a tree for the generation to come.The recent flash floods that hit the city, damaged roads, destroyed bridges and inundated low lying areas served as an inspiration for all to actively join in the tree planting activity, he said.Among those who participated in the event was Nenita Militar, who at 60, shared her time to plant a tree or two Monday. I volunteered despite my age because I know this is for all of us, the next generation will benefit this project, she said in the vernacular.Miguel said the volunteers also vowed to continue joining efforts toprotect the environment. I appeal to everyone to help monitor the trees we just planted to ensure these are nurtured and grow fully, the mayor said.