In a continued effort to promote environmental duties and sustainable development, the Department of Natural Sciences (DNS) of the College of Arts and Sciences at Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) returned to Brgy. Bacong, Babatngon, Leyte to carry out the next phase of its Adopt-a-Site Program.
This extension activity focused on the establishment of a forest nursery and the initiation of seedling production, laying the groundwork for long-term forest restoration in the area. The initiative builds on the success of the department’s previous visit in September, when native tree species were planted as part of its commitment to ecological rehabilitation.
A key highlight of the day was a lecture delivered by Forester Louis Horca, the newest faculty member of DNS, who shared insights on sustainable forestry practices and the importance of community-led conservation. Also present were Department Chair Lilibeth Peliño, MSc, and Department Extension Coordinator Llorita Petallana, MSc, along with other faculty members who actively participated in the hands-on activities.
Beyond planting trees, the DNS is now taking steps to organize a people’s organization within the local community. This grassroots initiative aims to empower residents to take ownership of the forest nursery and manage it as a long-term ecological enterprise. By involving the community directly, the project ensures sustainability and fosters a deeper sense of environmental responsibility.
This article is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 04: Quality Education; SDG 11 : Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 13: Climate Action; SDG 15 : Life on Land; SDG 17 : Partnerships for the Goals
This greening project exemplifies EVSU’s holistic approach to extension work that integrates education, environmental action, and community partnership. Through collaborative efforts like these, the university continues to facilitate its mission of creating a greener and more sustainable future for the region.
