UDM and DENR Unite for Environmental Sustainability through “The Project O2: A Tree Growing Initiative

In celebration of environmental stewardship and sustainable development, the Universidad de Manila (UDM), in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), conducted a tree growing activity titled “The Project O2: A Tree Growing Initiative” on April 26, 2025, at the UDM campus grounds.

The event underscored UDM’s continuing commitment to ecological responsibility, civic participation, and partnership-building with external stakeholders. It was attended by key officials from the DENR, led by Dr. Hiro V. Masuda, Assistant Secretary for Human Resources and Sectoral Initiatives, together with UDM administrators — Dr. Ronald A. Herrera (Vice President for Academic Affairs), Dr. Rodolfo V. Castillo Jr. (Vice President for Student Success and Support Services), Mr. Manfredo A. Marcellano (Vice President for Administration), Mr. Jeffrey F. Litan (Vice President for Comptrollership), and Dr. Virginia I. Berganio (Assistant Director for the Center for Micro-Credentials and Industry Training). The event also saw the active involvement of Society for the Advancement of Science Education (SASE) members, faculty, staff, and students.

An informative session led by Mr. Frenz Carlo Balagas of DENR–NCR provided valuable insights on tree growing techniques and the long-term impact of environmental preservation. Participants learned practical strategies for nurturing trees and sustaining ecological balance, highlighting the importance of community-wide participation in protecting the environment.

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions and SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, this initiative reflects UDM’s proactive approach to identifying and engaging with local stakeholders through written policies and procedures that promote shared environmental advocacy. By partnering with government agencies, community organizations, and student groups, the University ensures that external stakeholders play an active role in shaping initiatives that advance sustainability, social responsibility, and institutional integrity.

Through “The Project O2,” UDM reaffirms its mission to create a learning environment that fosters collaboration, civic awareness, and environmental accountability — nurturing both people and the planet toward a sustainable future.

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