Tree growing at Calinan, Davao City

When I was starting as an environmental advocate, I was so excited to immerse in various initiatives. So, when an opportunity raised, I immediately agreed to participate in it. This initiative was a tree growing activity at Calinan, Davao City.

The plan took place when we gathered around 7AM in Ateneo. We rode a jeepney we rented and enjoyed the ride for an hour. Calinan is a far-flung area in Davao City where most forests and green spaces are found. It was my first time to be there since I was not a Davao resident until recently.

The ride to Calinan was spectacular. The breeze was not so gentle to make our hair strands annoyingly brush off our faces, yet it felt so comfortable and nostalgic.

By the time we arrived, the locals were there to welcome us, then they gave us instructions on how to navigate the forest. First, we hiked the mountain until we reached the bottom, then we would have to walk on a hanging bridge or the river if we're willing to get ourselves wet. I decided to take the hanging bridge then the river when we return.

(I also met this cute puppy!)

At the end of the bridge, we hiked again a little bit until we saw a hut where all the seedlings can be found. Each person was required to plant at least 10 seedlings at the end of that mountain where the land turned out to be kind of deserted due to flood erosion. The reason why we need to plant this is to sustain the rainforest to make it available again for freshwater consumption.

I managed to plant 20 seedlings!

This activity would not be complete if we cannot experience what the mountain offers, so we maximized it! When all the seedlings had been planted, we went for the river and feel the cool water. I even took a dip even despite the consequences I would be facing after because I did not bring any extra clothes. You read it right! I endured the ride home wearing my wet clothes. Things you do for fun and adventure!

One of the most unforgettable experiences I consider happened during this adventure. It was my first time to try water fresh from the roots of the mountain trees. A mysterious species also appeared to us. Apparently, it is called Phasmatodea more commonly as known as stick insects.

It was a blast! The whole hike was really fun and rewarding. Being able to help the environment is gratifying knowing that there are so much to look forward to. Mother Nature is indeed a mother.