There is no greater aspiration than to live in the midst of nature’s grandeur. But if one is blessed with this luxury, he is also charged with the responsibility of protecting and preserving it.

Tagaytay Highlands, the premier mountain resort destination in the country, continues to promote a lifestyle that is close to nature. This is evident in the abundance of flora and fauna which mark the Highlands’ various residential communities, complementing its sprawling greeneries and breathtaking views.

To highlight this nature-inspired lifestyle and reinforce its commitment to environmental protection and sustainability, Tagaytay Highlands recently held its annual “One Tree at a Time” tree-planting activity.

On December 7, 2018, executives and employees of Tagaytay Highlands, Belle Corporation, and Highlands Prime, Inc. planted over 500 forest and fruit-bearing saplings donated by Sagittarius Mines, Inc. across the different residential properties in this premier mountain resort complex. Sustainable materials such as bamboo shovels were also used during the tree planting to align with the event’s advocacy.

The annual tree-planting initiative is part of the realization of Tagaytay Highlands founder Willy N. Ocier’s dream of planting one million trees by 2044, 50 years after the inauguration of the Club.

At the opening ceremony held in Bistro Saratoga, Belle Corporation president Manuel A. Gana spoke before the guests, stressing that the annual event is meant to “inculcate in the minds of employees the spirit of volunteerism and that it is everyone’s commitment” to preserve and take care of nature.

“The tree-planting event is not just a corporate policy but a commitment to environmental sustainability,” Gana assured the audience. “We will not just plant trees; we will also ensure their survival.”

Aside from planting one tree at a time, Tagaytay Highlands Club General Manager Claire T. Kramer likewise noted that the Club contributes to environmental sustainability by controlling the use of diesel and electricity, and lowering the consumption of water and energy. This protocol effectively reduces their carbon footprint.

The tree-planting activity was also made possible by the 2GO Group, which provided their employees thereby promoting the spirit of volunteerism.

The participants were treated to a lively boodle fight thereafter. Volunteers were requested to bring their own water bottles.  These were in support of initiatives on sustainability to lessen the use of plastics and paper.  Likewise, this promoted employee engagement and fellowship among the different stakeholders.

“The greatest thing we can pass on to the next generation is a clean and green country. Thus, the Tagaytay Highlands will constantly be committed to preserve the finest in nature, one tree at a time,” Gana added.