Saving the Norfolk Pine Tree and Bamboo Sanctuary
- Published on Friday, 17 February 2012 14:32
- Category: Features
Press Release 006-12
17 February 2012
Briccio Domondon Jr.
Information Officer
Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP)
Title : Saving the Norfolk Pine Tree and Bamboo Sanctuary
Consistent with the continuing campaign to manage, protect, preserve and enhance the environment, two city councilors have filed separate proposed legislative measures aimed at protecting the fragile environment of the City.
First is a proposed resolution by lady councilor Honorable Betty Lourdes F. Tabanda requesting the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) to resuscitate the Norfolk pine tree located at the foot of session Road. As mentioned in the proposed measure, one of the events of the yearly “Christmas in Baguio” is the lighting of the towering Christmas tree which is actually the Norfolk pine tree situated at the foot of Session road, and which has become a landmark of sorts. It can also be recalled that the said event is one of the main attractions during the month long celebration of Christmas since the lighting of the Christmas lights enshrouding the Norfolk pine signals the beginning of the yuletide season.
However, as pointed out by Councilor Tabanda it has been observed by both locals and guests of the City that the said Norlfok pine tree has of late looked less robust and lacked the familiar grandeur that made it a living landmark and one of the symbols of Baguio. In this regard, she is recommending that there is an immediate need to resuscitate the said Norfolk pine tree to save it from further damage that may have been due to pest infestation, pollution and old age.
She further added that it is imperative to save that Norfolk pine tree to preserve our heritage and our rich past which links us to the present.
Along a similar vein, Honorable City Councilor Isabelo B. Cosalan Jr. has authored and filed a proposed resolution to designate identified open areas 2 and 3 in the zoning district boundaries of ordinance numbered 051, series of 2001 including the former Irisan dumpsite are as a bamboo sanctuary and plantation site for eco-tourism and livelihood purposes.
In his proposal, Councilor Cosalan made mention of ordinance numbered 051 series of 2001 which provides that open forest zones shall be utilized for tree parks, and soil conservation and related activities. He also cited the fact that Irisan dumpsite is already closed and presently undergoing rehabilitation to prevent the recurrence of a ‘trashslide’ and thus suitable for the purposes which he has mentioned in his proposed legislative measures. In justifying his choice of using bamboo for plant propagation, councilor Cosalan said that the said plant species is indigenous to the locality, it is fast growing and is known for its variety of uses such as material for construction, furniture, wood carving, culinary and landscaping, among others, and is also utilized for erosion control measures. He further added that the bamboo plant also helps in improving soil structure and acts as a filter for air pollutants.
It is also the recommendation of Councilor Cosalan in his legislative proposal that since wood crafting/craft is a major livelihood or industry of residents living adjacent to the proposed bamboo sanctuary and plantation sites, the propagation of bamboo in their areas will give them the chance to both manage the bamboo plantation and provide them with materials for their livelihood, and also undertake the maintenance and protection of the said plantations thus liberating the city government from maintenance and other costs.
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