TWO days before Valentine’s Day, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office ( Penro) of Misamis Oriental invited residents to celebrate love in a different way — by embracing nature.
On February 12, Penro launched its Tree Hugging Campaign at Sitio Mapawa, Barangay Cugman, offering a nature-centered alternative to flowers, chocolates, and crowded restaurants.
The activity is part of Penro and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-10) ongoing “Hug a Tree” program, now in its third year. The campaign encourages people to reconnect with the environment while recognizing the role of trees in improving health and sustainability.
Penro Officer Mabel Gemma Ravanera said tree hugging promotes both mental and physical well-being.
“Hugging trees can help reduce stress and improve mood. Trees also absorb carbon dioxide that our bodies release, which contributes to a lighter and calmer feeling,” she said.
Beyond wellness, the campaign also aims to deepen public appreciation for local forest resources. Penro plans to strengthen its information drive, especially among young people, to raise awareness about the forest park in Cugman that hosts hundreds of tree species and diverse bird life.
“Ang mga younger generation among i-encourage. I-strengthen nato ang information dissemination campaign that we have this forest in the heart of the city,” Ravanera said.
She added that E. Pelaez Ranch Incorporated, which manages the area, encourages residents to visit and learn more about the forest, noting that while the park is man-made, most of its trees are indigenous.
The activity was held at Mapawa Nature Park, home to the iconic Dao Tree (Dracontomelon dao), which stands nearly 49 meters tall and is estimated to be more than 200 years old. The tree was declared a Cagayan de Oro Heritage Tree under House Bill 7987 authored by 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez.
Why it matters
For many residents, Valentine’s Day often centers on spending and commercial gifts. Penro’s campaign offers a different perspective—one that promotes emotional well-being, environmental awareness, and simple, meaningful experiences.
Ravanera said embracing nature can have a calming effect on both body and mind.
“Maghatag gyud siya ug feeling nga gaan ang lawas. With the help of trees, ma-absorb ang carbon dioxide sa atong lawas, ug mas ma-relax ta,” she said.
Penro encouraged families, friends, and couples to visit Mapawa Nature Park not only during Valentine’s Day but throughout the year, turning it into a regular space for relaxation, learning, and environmental reflection.
Protecting forest heritage
Eduardo Pelaez, one of the property owners, stressed the importance of teaching young people to value and protect forest resources.
He said more than 1.2 hectares of man-made forest in the area are open for nature walks, outdoor learning, and environmental activities.
“We are obligated sa DENR to protect this at all cost,” Pelaez said.
He assured the public that the forest park will continue to be preserved as part of their long-term commitment to conservation and sustainable development.
