Institutions highlight role of trees in sustainable development

Several institutions, including Far Eastern University (FEU), highlighted the vital importance of trees in achieving global sustainable development goals (SDGs) during “Arbor Race 2025: Amazing Trees” last June 25 at the La Mesa Watershed Reservation in Quezon City.  

The race spanned approximately 3,900 steps and 11 creatively designed stations, each offering challenges that tested the participants’ environmental knowledge, physical endurance, and teamwork. Tasks ranged from seedling identification and forest scavenger hunts to tree measurement contests and a symbolic "Hug a Tree" finale.  

The event culminated in a tree-planting activity, further rooting the participants’ shared mission to protect forests and promote ecological balance. Through its participation, FEU reinforces its role as a green university, advocating for nature-based solutions, environmental education, and community engagement in support of the planet and future generations. 

Particularly highlighted SDGs were: 3 (Good Health and Well-being); 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation); 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities); 13 (Climate Action); and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). 

Representing FEU to the “one-of-a-kind environmental challenge” organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources were Dr. Dennis Pulido (Institute of Arts and Sciences), Lady Dianne Madrid (Institute of Accounts, Business, and Finance), and Jeremy Pedregosa (Institute of Education), who were selected through a collaboration between the Community Relations Office and the National Service Training Program. 

Some of the stations they hurdled were: Isilid ang Lupa sa Itim na Supot; Seedling Matching Type; Sukat Kahoy – Kahoylympics; Puno Who Halina’t Kilalanin; Magtanim Ay Di Biro.