Citing the need to have something identifiable to the immediate community, the local government of Tanay, Rizal, through the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) launched the Sampaloc Tree Planting Program last Oct. 13, 2015 at Sampaloc Barangay Hall and several other sites.
Photo from Menro Tanay
Municipal Mayor Rafael A. Tanjuatco said in his speech that many tourists have been asking where the name of barangay Sampaloc came from, to which locals would answer ‘sampaloc’ or tamarind tree. However, there are very few sampaloc trees planted in the barangay’s jurisdiction, which is ironic as local residents point out.
For his part, Sampaloc Brgy. Capt. Alvin Belza expressed his all-out support for the full implementation of the tree planting program. Belza said that in a matter of 3 to 4 years, the seedlings will reach full maturity and offer many benefits and possibly a source of livelihood for residents.
MENR Officer Engr. Carlos Inofre, Jr. who is leading the project, aims to plant as many sampaloc tree seedlings as possible in identified education institutions, government offices, and open spaces all over the barangay.
Inofre said that Sampaloc tree is known for its strength and sturdiness, which could very well symbolize the qualities of the residents. He added that they envision offspring projects such as Sampaloc Festival and products made from sampaloc to serve as means of livelihood in the community.
The project was launched in several sites including Sampaloc barangay hall, St. Jude Chapel, Haven for the Elderly, National Training School for Boys, and University of Rizal System Tanay.
Written by: Berlin P. Flores
