The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 12 actively participated in the 2024 Earth Day Celebration through a tree planting activity held at Barangay Batasan and Kisante, Makilala, Province of Cotabato on April 26, 2024. The event, themed “Sagip Gubat: Effective Protection, Development and Management of Forestlands,” was organized by the Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners (PIEP) SOCCSKSARGEN Chapter.

The DILG Dose delegation, spearheaded by OIC Regional Director Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero, CESE, and DILG Cotabato Provincial Director Ali B. Abdullah, joined local community members and environmental advocates in planting trees to promote forest conservation and sustainable land management. The activity aimed to highlight the importance of safeguarding forested areas and ensuring their sustainable development for future generations.

During the event, PIEP SOCCSKSARGEN President Marjorie Bandolon-Cartojano, MM, REB, REA, REC, delivered a welcoming message emphasizing the significance of collective action in safeguarding our forests and natural resources. Her address highlighted the critical role of community involvement and government support in achieving effective forest protection and management.

The participation of DILG Dose in this Earth Day initiative underscores the department's commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. By collaborating with local organizations and residents, DILG continues to promote initiatives that contribute to the long-term conservation and development of forested areas.