September 27, 2022. The gravity of the climate crisis calls for a unified, global action that begins in the local level. And so in response to the plea of fulfilling our sacred duty to love and care for creation through environmental action, the Interfaith Forum for Solidarity and Peace (IFSP) together with Lay Organization, Movements and Associations (LOMAS) joined hands in a tree planting event at the UCCP Mission Area located in Tuboran, Mahayag owned by Pastor Jun Maturan Candia. Some local government officials in Mahayag were also present to welcome the group.
Around forty participants took part in this event by planting more than fifty endemic trees namely: Danlugan, Tanggili, Pali, Lukos, Gibo, Apitong, Kalayaan and Lauan that were planted and cared for by the Subanens from the Balaang Bungtod Eco-Sanctuary in Nanga Nangan, Tigbao. This shared environmental concern along with interfaith dialogue among Muslims, Christians and Lumad is truly a way of strengthening community-based environmental peacebuilding here in the Diocese of Pagadian.
After the tree planting activity, the group made a short trip to Eriberta Spring Resort. The clear crystal springs was so refreshing and relaxing to the delight of everyone until a heavy downpour blessed the day just before returning to the site where a sumptuous lunch awaited the group specially prepared by the UCCP community. The regular monthly meeting followed right after the meal to discuss important matters in preparation for the forthcoming Mindanao Week of Peace in November.
Special thanks to Pastor Jun Maturan Candia and the UCCP community for their warm welcome and hospitality.
