Security Bank Corporation, together with its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, Security Bank Foundation Inc., has committed to plant 10,000 seedlings at the La Mesa Watershed over the next five years, contributing to reforestation efforts that began in 1999.

To kick off the five-year commitment, Security Bank employees planted 2,000 seedlings of Lago and Malapapaya trees at the watershed.

This was in partnership with the ABS-CBN Foundation's Bantay Kalikasan Program, which has been serving the community in protecting one of the biggest sources of clean water in Metro Manila.

The La Mesa Watershed is the largest rainforest in Metro Manila and the region's major source of potable water. The activity involved more than 200 employee volunteers and generated 1,600 volunteer hours. SBFI was also honored to be this year's top private donor for La Mesa Watershed reforestation.

"We know and understand that protecting the environment is critical to uplifting the quality of lives. Our commitment represents 45 percent of the La Mesa Watershed's remaining area for reforestation.

By planting these seedlings, we will help increase the country's forest cover, offset carbon emissions that affect global warming, prevent flooding and ensure the cleanliness of Metro Manila's water supply," said Melissa Aquino, Trustee and Corporate Secretary of SBFI.

The commitment to plant 10,000 trees in five years will be complimented by environmental education efforts, which is also in line with the Bank's education advocacy. This will be led by Security Bank's Sustainability Unit.

"Security Bank Foundation's adoption of 25 hectares of the La Mesa Watershed for five years is proof of their long-term commitment to protecting and preserving the environment; the ABS-CBN Foundation is honored to be a partner in their advocacy," said Joal Ascalon, Head of Bantay Kalikasan Program.

Prior to the tree-planting event, SBFI and Security Bank's Sustainability Unit conducted virtual learning session with employees on the importance of climate change, the Bank's sustainability efforts, and how employees can contribute to achieving the Bank's sustainability goals.