MANILA, 19 August 2020 — For the 14th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic “Planting Native Trees,” native tree experts and enthusiasts will discuss how native trees have higher value both commercially in tree farms and for biodiversity and how they aid in addressing the adverse impacts of climate change.
 
The episode, hosted by House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 20 August 2020, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/conglorenlegarda and facebook.com/CCCPhl/.
 
Notable Philippine native tree enthusiasts will join the online conversation, including Atty. Asis Perez, Senior Legal Adviser of Tanggol Kalikasan; Dr. Ephraim Cercado, a medical surgeon and manager of the Philippine Native Tree Enthusiasts initiative; and Ms. Lee Ann Canals-Silayan, Founder of Kaleekasann nursery.
 
In previous episodes, the online series tackled food gardening, saving seeds, permaculture, good nutrition and diet, youth climate activism and sustainable urban mobility in order to teach citizens to be self-sustainable and self-sufficient.
 
This upcoming episode will feature what native trees to plant, why native trees on idle lands will grow in value, and how to reduce costs per hectare in planting tree farms. It will highlight the role of native trees in sequestering carbon, providing oxygen, reducing risks from floods and landslides, and restoring the natural biodiversity of landscapes. If you have idle private lands, watch this to see what you can do with them towards a better normal.
 
Episode fourteen of “Stories for a Better Normal” series is also an opportunity to promote the greening of our urban spaces to support good mental and physical health during this COVID-19 pandemic.
 
As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.
  
This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.