Philippine E-Journals

Saving the Last Lung of Manila (Arroceros Mini-Forest Park)

Cherry D. Comia

 

Abstract:

The paper chronicles the efforts of a group of dedicated environmentalist to transform 2.2 hectares lot along Arroceros St. in the heart of the city of Manila into a mini-forest park. There were five sections of NSTP classes assigned to this special project, working on Saturdays. The classes were under the supervision of Professors Modesto Ballesteros, Cherry Comia, Henry Junio and Romeo Sy, and Associate Dean Veronica N. Elizalde-all faculty members of the UE College of Education. For several months, the UE NSTP advisers and students were involved in clearing the area. Five sections of NSTP classes from the UE college of Business Administration assisted Winners Foundation, Inc. in the three phases of the project's development: the clean-up drive, the tree planting and the development and maintenance of the area. The NSTP group did the clean-up drive, with NSTP students cleaning the area by removing dry leaves, deadwood, pebbles and such. The faculty advisers directed and supervised the clean- up drive to ensure that the students were working efficiently and, in effect, preparing the area for planting.