In partnership with Bukidnon State University, the City Government of Malaybalay through the able leadership of City Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran launched the opening ceremony for the joint long-term tree growing program last October 19, 2022.

The aim of the program is to work hand in hand with higher educational institutions in the restoration of degraded areas in Malaybalay City.

In the launching activity, the tree growing was conducted in the easements along the Sawaga River (Casisang, Barangay 7, Barangay 11, Barangay 10, Sumpong, Kalasungay) and Mamala Creek (Casisang) as these areas are located at the urban center of Malaybalay City and then planted with 3000 assorted endemic forest and fruit trees, including bamboos.

The first activity was participated in by 1000 students and faculty members under the National Service Training Program of Bukidnon State University. Follow-through tree planting activities will be conducted in the coming weeks as it is expected that approximately 4000 students will have been able to participate in this important activity before the year ends.

The launching ceremony was graced by City Mayor Pabillaran altogether with Councilor Alan Ryann Legaspi, City ENR Officer Maria Anita L. Fernandez, CDRRMO Acting Department Head Alan J. Comiso, BSU-NSTP Coordinator Albert Celebran, BSU faculty members, City ENRO and CDRRMO personnel, with the 1000 BSU college freshmen students.

The renaturation of Sawaga River and Mamala creek found in the heart of Malaybalay City will benefit the entire population of Malaybalay City specially the future generation as the said river has always been one of the major water source for drinking, irrigation and industrial uses.

Jessie G. Suson, SEMS/City ENRO-NADA