Science in Service of the Environment: A Student-Driven Mulberry Tree Initiative in Malamote, Midsayap

MALAMOTE, MIDSAYAP, COTABATO — Members and officers of the SciMasters Club, together with their moderators, gathered in Malamote, Midsayap, Cotabato, to carry out a tree-planting activity that reflects their shared commitment to environmental protection and sustainable community development. The activity formed part of the club’s continuing efforts to translate scientific knowledge and youth leadership into concrete action for the environment.

The initiative aimed to contribute to a greener and more climate-resilient community while fostering environmental responsibility among students and local stakeholders. By planting trees in the area, the SciMasters Club shows their commitment to sustainability with community-based actions rather than one-time events.

Mulberry trees were selected for the activity due to their suitability for local conditions and their potential for lasting impact. Known for their resilience and adaptability, mulberry trees thrive in a wide range of soil types and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for community-managed planting sites. In addition, mulberry trees offer practical benefits through their edible fruits and useful leaves, encouraging community members to care for and protect the trees long after the planting activity.

The tree-planting activity aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land) through the protection and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems, SDG 13 (Climate Action) by contributing to local climate mitigation efforts, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening collaboration between students, educators, and local institutions.

The SciMasters Club expressed its gratitude to the Local Government Unit of Midsayap for its invaluable support, which played a key role in the successful implementation of the activity. The partnership highlights how cooperation between youth organizations and local government can generate meaningful environmental initiatives with long-term benefits for the community.

Through this activity, the SciMasters Club demonstrated that student-led initiatives, when guided by science and strengthened by collaboration, can make a tangible contribution to environmental sustainability. The club remains committed to advancing programs that nurture ecological awareness, community engagement, and shared responsibility for a healthier and more sustainable future.

Photos by: Sci-Master Club-NDMC Facebook Page