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Introduction
Tacloban City, July 2025 – PH Haiyan Advocacy Inc. has taken a bold step toward promoting food security, sustainability, and climate resilience through a proposal submitted to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The initiative seeks to integrate fruit-bearing trees along Tacloban City’s national roads and urban corridors, aligning with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) National Greening Program and the government’s broader goals for sustainable development.
Background of the Proposal
The proposal, submitted to DPWH Secretary Hon. Manuel M. Bonoan on July 30, 2025, outlined the benefits of planting selected native fruit-bearing trees such as jackfruit (langka), guava, guyabano, tamarind, and mango along public road networks.
In his letter, PH Haiyan Advocacy Inc. Chairman and President Petronilo “Pete” L. Ilagan emphasized that this effort builds upon the organization’s ongoing partnership with DPWH Region VIII, particularly in planting banana tree seedlings along the Tacloban City Bypass Road. The initiative also echoes successful international models, such as those in New Zealand.
DPWH’s Favorable Response
The DPWH responded positively to the proposal on both the Central Office and Regional Office levels.
On August 7, 2025, the DPWH Central Office, through Undersecretary Ador G. Canlas, issued a memorandum forwarding PH Haiyan Advocacy Inc.’s proposal to DPWH Region VIII for consideration and appropriate action. The memo clearly stated that the initiative aligns with national development priorities, aiming to support food security goals, promote environmental sustainability, enhance tourism, and contribute to the National Greening Program.
“The integration of fruit-bearing trees along Tacloban’s road corridors supports food security, promotes sustainability, and contributes to the National Greening Program.”
— DPWH Central Office Memo, August 2025
Significance and Impact
The exchange between PH Haiyan Advocacy Inc. and the DPWH underscores the potential of public-private collaboration in building “infrastructure for well-being”—roads that do not only connect communities but also nourish and sustain them.
- Promote food security through localized fresh produce.
- Strengthen climate resilience via sustainable land use.
- Boost eco-tourism with scenic and cultural appeal.
- Support the National Greening Program.
- Empower communities through stewardship of trees.
Future Outlook and Call to Action
PH Haiyan Advocacy Inc. is optimistic that this initiative will not only take root in Tacloban City but also serve as a model for other regions across the Philippines.
As Chairman Ilagan expressed, this effort is “a modest yet visionary step toward building infrastructure for well-being—where roads do not only connect communities, but nourish and inspire them as well.”
