This Viral Photo of Reforestation in Zambales Becomes a Beacon of Hope for Forests and Aeta Communities Future

The reforestation has turned an almost desolate land into a flourishing green sanctuary.

By: Kriszel T. Rago | July 31, 2024

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Nadine Lustre, Raf Dionisio, co-founder of MAD Travel, Aeta communities, and other stakeholders helped reforest the mountainside of San Felipe, Zambales.

Images: Raf Dionisio (L); MAD Travel Facebook page (R)

In a remarkable display of environmental rejuvenation, before-and-after photos of San Felipe, Zambales’ forests have recently gone viral. The images taken in April 2017 and July 2024 showcase the dramatic transformation brought about by reforestation projects and efforts such as the 88k Trees reforestation project, spearheaded by Nadine Lustre, Bioten, For The Future, and MAD Travel with the Aeta Communities of Yangil and Banawen.

Nadine Lustre and the co-founder of MAD Travel, Raf Dionisio.

Image: MAD Travel Facebook page

Amidst the lash of Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon sweeping across Luzon and other parts of the Philippines, these photos have become a beacon of hope for the future of the region’s forests, farmers, and Aeta communities' livelihood and flourishing tourism industry.

These reforestation projects and efforts have restored ecological balance and revitalized the area’s natural beauty. Tree reforestation efforts are particularly significant as they helped stabilize the soil, reduce the risk of landslides, and improve water quality, which are crucial defenses against frequent typhoons and monsoons in the coming months. Moreover, the initiative has provided livelihood opportunities for locals who planted and maintained the trees.

The viral Facebook post, which has more than 29,000 shares and 56,000 reactions as of writing, showcased how the area looked in April 2017 compared to its current state, with 62,000 trees planted.

Image: Raf Dioniso

San Felipe, Zambales, is known for its pristine beaches, scenic landscapes, and vibrant surfing culture, particularly at Liwliwa Beach, famous for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. Beyond the beaches, San Felipe, Zambales also has hiking trails, such as the Santo Tomas River trail, Mount Nagdayap, and Tictic River trail, which have become more accessible and appealing due to the flourishing forests made possible by reforestation projects and efforts.

The area’s natural beauty, welcoming community, and growing eco-tourism and agro-forestry initiatives make San Felipe, Zambales, a must-visit spot for adventure seekers and those looking to relax by the mountains, trees, or the waters.

If you’d like to participate in these activities and learn more about the reforestation projects at San Felipe, Zambales, and other parts of the country, visit www.madtravel.org.

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About Kriszel T. Rago

Kriszel is a writer, an aspiring multimedia journalist, and a strong-willed, pierced & inked modern-day kikay tita. As a former iskolar ng bayan–still one at heart, Kriszel is passionate about social issues and everything under the sun. She loves to read, watch documentaries, thriller-mystery series, and anime, cook for her loved ones, and play Valorant & Mobile Legends with friends. Kriszel dreams of being a multiple degree holder and traveling to every province in the Philippines.

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