STATEMENT OF SUPPORT TO PRESERVE THE TOOG TREE
The Philippine Federation of Professional Associations (PFPA) composed of Filipino professional organizations duly recognized by the Professional Regulation Commission expresses its full support all moves to in save and preserve the 300-year old Philippine Rosewood or Toog Tree (Petersianthus quadrialatus Merr.) located in Barangay Alegria, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.
Considered one of the few remaining heritage trees in the country, we stand by the recommendation of the Society of Filipino Foresters, Inc. (SFFI), that all efforts be made to preserve the Tree notwithstanding the institution of appropriate measures necessary to nurture it being one of the oldest trees in the country and a mute but living witness of historical developments in the area.
Said Tree not only serves as a reminder of the country’s rich heritage, but also stands as a living inspiration to all of us to be mindful of the need in sustainably managing our natural resources. The PFPA and all tree enthusiasts recognize sustainable forest management (SFM) both as strategy and policy in the country to ensure that treasures like the said Toog Tree are preserved at all costs.
On behalf of all the Professionals in the country, the PFPA therefore issues this Statement of Support this 14th day of September, 2020 for consideration of all concerned.