Graduating Students from Cotabato State University (CSU) have successfully carried out a Mangrove tree-planting project in Kalanganan II, Cotabato City on April 29, 2023.

       With the theme "Rooted in Success: Planting Roots for Sustainable Future," the initiative was aimed at promoting sustainability and preserving the environment. The project was executed in partnership with the 1404th RMFC, RMFB 14 personnel under the supervision of PMAJ JAPET S GUTIERREZ, Taga Cotabato ka Kung Inc., led by Ms. Cathleya Diocolano, TCKKI President, Regional Finance Service 19 (RFSO 19) led by PMAJ ALYSSA S GUTIERREZ, Cotabato Mobile Force Company, EOD K9, 6CMO Battalion, Philippine ARMY 2nd Mechanized, Karancho, and Adat-Betad Inc.

       The CSU mandated the tree planting activity as one of the requirements for graduation, and 175 Graduands were in attendance to support the initiative. Dr. Tarhata P. Solaiman-Guiamalon expressed gratitude to the Grad School Graduating Class Officers led by Aljon Ric G. Robles, as well as to all the stakeholders who supported the project. According to Guiamalon, the previous tree planting initiative by the CSU Graduands involved Kalamansi seedlings in Rebuken; this time, the project focused on planting mangrove seedlings, which play an important role in maintaining climate balance. Dr. Sema G. Dilna emphasized that the project was not only a prerequisite for graduation, but also an effort to help the planet, which is currently experiencing a heatwave. Prior to the tree-planting activity, Nashrudin P. Kusain, Executive Director of Adat-Betad, gave an informative orientation on Mangrove tree planting. //Rajan M. Mamadra