Demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI), through its Community Extension Services Office, joined the "Puno sang Kabuhi: 9th Tree Growing Festival" on June 22, 2026, at Sitio Lambusong, Barangay Colongulo, Surallah, South Cotabato. The tree planting activity was one of the highlights of the Surbetube Festival, celebrated under the theme "Together We Grow, Together We Thrive." The event gathered representatives from educational institutions, government agencies, and various organizations, all working together toward a common goal of protecting and restoring the environment.

The annual tree growing festival serves as more than a ceremonial planting activity. It is a collective call to care for nature and safeguard it for future generations. By bringing together different sectors of society, the event encourages environmental responsibility, raises awareness of the importance of reforestation, and reminds everyone that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility. Through simple yet meaningful actions, participants contributed to creating healthier ecosystems and greener communities.

Representing HCCCI in the activity were Ms. Grasya T. Lumba, Community Extension Services Coordinator; Mr. Jhon Lucas Frac, Corporate Activity Director; Mr. Bon Bon Mallare of the Socio Cultural Arts Club; Mr. Francis Lyod Galanida, General Education Coordinator; Ms. Kaye Escober, ROTC Coordinator; Mr. Jastine Gatdula, Faculty Member; and Ms. Stephany Domingo, Faculty Member. The event was organized by the Local Government Unit of Surallah, in partnership with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Surallah, whose leadership brought together organizations committed to preserving the municipality's natural environment.

Working alongside fellow volunteers, the HCCCI delegates planted tree seedlings in designated areas of Sitio Lambusong, contributing to ongoing reforestation efforts. Each tree planted represented a shared commitment to environmental protection and a recognition that even small actions can create lasting positive change. The activity also provided participants with the opportunity to strengthen relationships with partner institutions while reinforcing the value of teamwork and service in caring for the environment.

HCCCI's participation in the Puno sang Kabuhi: 9th Tree Growing Festival supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiative contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action by supporting reforestation efforts that help address the impacts of climate change. It also advances SDG 15: Life on Land by promoting the restoration and protection of terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. Through its collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Surallah and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, the activity reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating how institutions can work together to achieve meaningful environmental outcomes. Moreover, the experience supports SDG 4: Quality Education by providing experiential learning that deepens environmental awareness and civic responsibility, while contributing to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by encouraging initiatives that create cleaner, greener, and more sustainable surroundings.

Beyond planting trees, the activity strengthened the spirit of cooperation among participants from different sectors. It highlighted how shared efforts can help protect natural resources while inspiring others to become active contributors to environmental conservation. Every seedling planted symbolized hope for a healthier environment and stronger partnerships dedicated to sustainable development.

For the HCCCI delegates, the experience was both meaningful and rewarding. Standing side by side with fellow volunteers and community partners reinforced the idea that environmental sustainability is achieved through collective action. Guided by the festival's theme, "Together We Grow, Together We Thrive," the participants were reminded that every act of service, no matter how small, can leave a lasting impact on both people and the environment.

By actively participating in initiatives such as the Puno sang Kabuhi: 9th Tree Growing Festival, Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. continues to demonstrate that education extends beyond the classroom. Through meaningful partnerships, volunteerism, and environmental action, HCCCI remains a dedicated advocate for sustainable development, inspiring its academic community to become responsible stewards of the environment and catalysts for positive change.