GOVPH

Details: Last Updated: 13 March 2024

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Offices (ROs) participated in the annual Tree Hugging Campaign of the Forest Management Bureau (FMB) on February 12-16, 2024 pursuant to MGB Memorandum dated January 26, 2024.

According to FMB, the Tree Hugging Movement is a passionate action towards the protection and conservation of forests. The movement originated in the 1970s in Northern India known as “Chipko Movement” which saved the forests by emphasizing the interdependence of humans and the environment.

Furthermore, studies show that tree-hugging has several health benefits. It increases levels of the hormone that is responsible for the calmness and emotional well-being of the person. Also, spending time around trees can lower blood pressure and heart rates, improve immunity, and reduce stress and anxiety.

The campaign also aims to promote awareness of the importance of nurturing forests and the benefits of tree-hugging, promote the social/health benefits that we can derive from nurturing trees/forests, raise awareness of the importance of the tree-hugging movement, and introduce an alternative way of celebrating Valentine’s Day by showing and expressing the love and care for the environment through tree hugging.

This year’s participation of MGB ROs in the Tree Hugging Campaign of FMB showcased the love and care for our forests by capturing a photo of hugging a tree. Likewise, various mining companies also participated in the said activity.

Photos showcasing personnel of various MGB ROs and mining companies hugging different native/indigenous tree species as well as ancestral trees were posted in their respective social media accounts using the hashtags #OneTreeLove, #TreeHuggingDay, #PunoNgPagmamahal, and #ValentinesDay.

By: Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division