Shincheonji Volunteers (SCJ Volunteers), in partnership with government agencies, educators, the military and local residents, recently conducted a tree-planting activity in Rodriguez, Rizal, as part of efforts to support environmental conservation and forest restoration.

Held in Sitio Parawagan, Barangay San Rafael, the activity carried the theme “50K Trees: Green Shields Save Lives” and resulted in the planting and distribution of 250 narra seedlings to strengthen the municipality’s reforestation program.

The initiative brought together the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Philippine Army’s 80th Infantry Battalion, Peacemaker International Christian Academy (PICA) and members of the local community.

Of the 250 narra seedlings prepared for the activity, 155 were planted on-site, while the remaining 95 seedlings were distributed to community members for planting and long-term care.

The activity was attended by 23 SCJ Volunteers, together with senior high school students, teachers, PICA personnel, representatives from MENRO and BJMP, Philippine Army personnel and local residents.

The event marked SCJ Volunteers’ third tree-planting activity in Rodriguez and its first as lead organizer under the “50K Trees: Green Shields Save Lives” campaign.

The organization said the initiative builds on its continuing partnership with MENRO following its participation in previous tree-planting activities led by the BJMP and under the Oplan BUSILAK Program, which was held in celebration of the 125th Founding Anniversary of the Province of Rizal.

Speaking on behalf of Rodriguez Mayor Ronnie Evangelista, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Emma Liwliwa S. Baradi-Medina said the activity complements the local government’s ongoing environmental programs that promote forest restoration, biodiversity conservation and greater community participation in protecting natural resources.

Prior to the tree-planting activity, SCJ Volunteers and Peacemaker International Christian Academy (PICA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen future volunteer initiatives.

Under the agreement, the two organizations will jointly develop community programs, mobilize volunteers, promote public participation, coordinate resources, and undertake projects that support environmental protection and social responsibility.

The recent tree-planting activity served as the first environmental project under the partnership.

SCJ Volunteers said it is also exploring future collaborations with MENRO and the BJMP to expand environmental conservation and volunteer programs.

The organization, a global non-government organization affiliated with the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, said it continues to promote volunteerism through programs focused on environmental protection, livelihood support, education, and community development. Through its “50K Trees: Green Shields Save Lives” campaign, it aims to strengthen partnerships with government agencies, educational institutions, and local communities in advancing environmental stewardship and community resilience.