Manila, June 25 -- As the country celebrates Arbor Day on Wednesday, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) renewed its call for Filipinos to take part in protecting Philippine forests and restoring degraded ecosystems.

In his Arbor Day message, Environment Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla underscored the vital role of trees in ensuring environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

"Arbor Day is more than a symbolic occasion; each tree planted is not only a lasting gift, it is an investment in the health, resilience, and future of our communities," a statement sent by his office read.

"Today, we not only mark this occasion, we renew our shared commitment to protect our environment."

In the Philippines, Arbor D...