1 Million Trees and Counting: GCash and RAFI Transforming Cebu's Landscape for a Sustainable Future

The leading mobile wallet in the Philippines, GCash, and the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), have joined forces to undertake ambitious reforestation initiatives that are reshaping the landscape of Cebu. Through their trailblazing programs, GForest and One to Tree, this dynamic partnership has already planted an astonishing total of 1,075,000 mangroves and upland trees since 2021, with a goal of reaching 1,150,000 by the end of 2023.

The two GForests, nestled within the pristine Luyang Watershed in the northern town of Carmen, span a remarkable expanse. The first project encompasses 375 hectares of farmland, beautifully interwoven with planting sites in the barangays of Caurasan, Upper Natimao-an, Liboron, Ipil, Cantumog, and Lower Natimao-an. The second endeavor covers 355 hectares of farmland, embracing the barangays of Upper Natimao-an, Corte, Ipil, Caurasan, Hagnaya, Lanipga, and Cantumog. Together, these two GForests have become a testament to the power of ecological restoration and sustainable land management.

Within these lush landscapes, an awe-inspiring tapestry of 600,000 native trees has taken root, including Avocado, Bangkal, Cacao, Cashew, Coffee, Guyabano, Jackfruit, Mamalis, Mangosteen, Molave, Nangka, Narra, and Rambutan. With a remarkable survivability rate ranging from 92 to 94% as of March 2023, these trees have not only contributed to the revival of biodiversity but also significantly improved rainwater percolation within the watershed.

The Luyang Watershed, known as a vital ecological hub in Cebu, supplies a staggering twenty-four thousand cubic meters of surface freshwater. The fortification of tree cover in the two GForests has brought about the enhancement of rainwater absorption, increasing the water table that sustains the springs feeding the rivers. This augmentation of water supply will undoubtedly benefit the neighboring urban cities of Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu, ensuring a more secure water future for the region.

However, the commitment to reforestation does not stop there. The third project, GForest Mangroves, sets its sights on planting 550,000 seedlings in the municipalities of Daanbantayan, San Remigio, and Medellin. These coastal areas face the majestic Tañon Strait, a thriving marine protected area renowned as the Philippines' largest under the National Integrated Protected Areas System. As of May 2023, approximately 47.5 hectares have been transformed into verdant havens through the careful nurturing of 475,000 seedlings encompassing species such as Bakhaw Lalaki (Rhizopora apiculata), Bakhaw Babae (Rhizopora mucronata), Bakhaw Bato (Rhizopora stylosa), Bungalon (Aviccenia alba), Miapi (Aviccenia marina), Aviccenia officinallis, Aviccenia rumphiana, Pagatpat (Sonneratia alba), Pedada (Sonneratia caseolaris), and Sonneratia ovata.

The profound impact of this partnership extends far beyond environmental conservation. By engaging 200 landowners, 687 individuals, and ten people's organizations in site preparation, tree-planting, and maintenance activities, GCash and RAFI have not only revitalized the natural landscape but also empowered local communities. Through their collaborative efforts, livelihood opportunities have been created, fostering economic growth and social cohesion among the residents of Cebu.

GCash, as a frontrunner in sustainable initiatives, remains resolute in its mission to mitigate the effects of climate change. The introduction of the GForest feature within the mobile wallet app in 2019 has incentivized users to participate in eco-friendly endeavors and become "Green Heroes" in their own right. By earning green energy through cashless transactions, such as bill payments, load purchases, and money transfers, users contribute to the planting of virtual trees. Moreover, GCash has forged partnerships with both international and local organizations to translate virtual trees into tangible reforestation efforts across the nation.

With a current tally of 2.2 million trees planted, GCash has set its sights on an ambitious target of 5 million trees by 2025, firmly cementing its commitment to a sustainable future for the Philippines.

Amid the pressing global challenges posed by climate change, the collaboration between GCash and RAFI stands as a shining example of how technology, environmental stewardship, and community engagement can harmoniously coexist. By nurturing the growth of forests and mangroves, they are not only restoring the natural balance of Cebu's ecosystems but also safeguarding the invaluable services these ecosystems provide, such as clean water, protection against natural disasters, and the preservation of biodiversity.

As the journey towards a greener tomorrow continues, GCash and RAFI beckon individuals and communities alike to join their noble cause. Through the collective effort of planting trees, whether in the digital realm or in the physical landscape, every act contributes to a profound transformation—a transformation that ensures a sustainable future for Cebu and generations to come.

To learn more about the GForest feature and other sustainability initiatives, visit www.gcash.com.ph and embark on a journey of environmental stewardship.