The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, through the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), launched the operation MIA V 2.0., a spin-off program of the “Magsidalus Iti Arubayan” initiated by former Governor and City Mayor Manoling Ortega. From instilling discipline to the residents to clean their surroundings, Version 2.0 of the program translates to “Magsimula iti Arubayan” which highlights the green environment.

A total of 500 seedlings of fruit-bearing trees and Rosal were planted along the mountain slopes, and some were given to residents that include sacks of organic soil yesterday, September 8, 2020, in Barangay Sibuan Otong. The said activity was led by City Mayor Alf Ortega, his wife, Candy Ortega, and CENR Officer Valmar M. Valdez together with key officials.

Personnel from the Office of the City Mayor (OCM), Barangay Council, Office of the City Agriculturist (AGR) and members of the Lupon ng mga Indibidwal na Nangangalaga sa Kalikasan (LINK) were also present in the event.

According to Valdez, this program aims to encourage the residents to clean and plant within their backyards to ensure that families stay healthy, happy, and safe as it helps in the prevention of the spread of viruses. In his opening message, Mayor Alf emphasized the importance of the younger generations’ involvement in taking care of the environment.

“Kasapulan apo nangrunaana dagiti ubing nga masuro da ken they will learn that very important nga agmula tayo.” Mayor Alf said.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, focuses on the environment sector now more than ever to ensure the citizens’ health and safety and to show that #SanFerandoAyAyatenKa.

(Story and Photos by Erwin Beleo)