As one of its core values, CHJ emphasizes to its students and personnel the value of caring for God’s creations which can be manifested on several tree planting and other related activities conducted by the school and participated by its members over the years. Last April 1, 2022, the faculty, staff, sisters and maintenance personnel of Colegio de las Hijas de Jesus, Inc. took part in a tree planting activity at Bucari Pine Forest and Campsite, Leon, Iloilo in collaboration with the Tourism Office of Leon, Iloilo.
The said activity not only aspires to embody the school’s core values but also aims to respond to Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ (On Care for Our Common Home) which is a call to humanity for action on sustainable development. Through this, the members of the whole educative family were given an opportunity to contribute in establishing and stabilizing a clean and green environment as well as to nourish their bonds of friendship necessary for personal growth and development.
During the tree planting activity, the faculty, staff, sisters and maintenance personnel planted 60 seedlings of cacao tree. After which, they were given time to hug a tree, go hiking and appreciate nature’s beauty.
Many expressed their appreciation on the said activity and its aims. Ms. Lerma S. Talite, a Filipino teacher, said, “I am thankful that our tree planting was pushed through because in a way, we could concretely show our care for our common home”. Another teacher, Ms. Jellie Star Boco, even added that she felt fulfilled and happy that she can help in planting more trees to lessen the instances of flood and erosion. The school’s committee on Laudato Si’ has carefully planned and has already implemented activities such as the Earth Hour, the backyard gardening, lessening the use of plastic bags, and recycling to respond to nature’s call for restoration.
by: Ms. Metzi Joy Alson
