Reyes’ group backs expert findings

CEBU, Philippines - The National Coalition to Save the Trees supports the findings of forester Roger Guzman that there is no need to remove the trees initially scheduled for cutting and that measures, like tree surgery, can still be made to save these ageing trees.

The statement of support was shared to local group Movement for a Livable Cebu.

“Our national coalition has recommended experts from civil society to participate in assessment of proposed government projects targeting cutting of trees in Cebu, Pangasinan, Pampanga, Laguna, Cavite and other areas,” PFEC statement read.

Guzman is the executive director of Philippine Federation for Environmental Concern or PFEC. Father Robert Reyes heads PFEC and is also affiliated with the coalition.

Reyes earlier climbed one of the century-old trees that were to be cut in Naga City last month and called on Cebuanos to save these trees so as not to fall to pave the way for development.

The group claimed victory over the battle in saving the trees when national authorities particularly Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje recalled the tree cutting permits.

A dialogue among stakeholders yielded that an assessment from an external tree pathologist not affiliated with government nor the groups opposing the cutting be sought in order to determine if the trees really have to go.  (FREEMAN)