Police officers and local officials planted 208 coconut seedlings at the Takuat Training Center in Barangay Paayas, San Nicolas, on 2 February as part of activities marking the Ilocos Norte’s 208th Founding Anniversary, according to the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office.

The tree-planting activity, dubbed Oplan Lifeline (AgCECILEpo nga Biag), was led by INPPO Provincial Director Joemar Q. Labiano and attended by Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos and Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Marlon T. Sales of the 1st Congressional District.

Police said personnel from the INPPO Command Group, Provincial Headquarters, Tourist Police Unit, 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, and representatives from Force Multiplier and Peacekeeper Riders of Ilocos Norte Incorporated participated in the activity. The planting was conducted in coordination with the Department of Agriculture - Philippine Coconut Authority Ilocos Norte.

Authorities said the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns, including flooding and soil erosion, in selected areas of the province.

Labiano said similar tree-planting activities have also been carried out in San Nicolas, Batac, and other parts of Ilocos Norte, adding that these are expected to continue in the coming months as part of anniversary-related programs.

Ilocos Norte is marking its 208th founding anniversary this year with a series of activities organized by various government agencies and local government units.