A 60-year-old dumpsite in Dagupan City is getting a fresh start as an eco-tourism park, with thousands of trees to be planted as part of a major reforestation plan.

Three barangays—Bonuan Gueset, Boquig, and Binloc—will benefit from this rehabilitation project.

The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Central Pangasinan has laid out a full reforestation plan for the site.

“Magbibigay tayo ng more than 2,000 seedlings and at the same time, imo-mobilize ang community para magsagawa ng massive tree planting activities,” Engr. Noriel Nisperos, Central Pangasinan CENR Officer, said.

The tree planting has already started, with more than 200 seedlings now in the ground. These include native and ornamental species such as narra, Palawan cherry, and acacia.

CENRO will also give technical support to help the local government ensure the trees survive in Dagupan’s hot climate.

“Kailangan science-based ang pagtatanim. Unang-una, proper spacing. Lalagyan ng pipe para mabilis ma-absorb yung tubig,” Nisperos said.

The massive tree planting will officially begin in June, in celebration of Environment Month, and will continue until October.

It will cover 4.2 hectares, including nearby beach areas where coconut and beach forest species will be planted.

“4.2 hectares siya. Pero include din natin yung area sa beach. Tataniman ng beach forest species and coconuts,” Nisperos said.