Ascott Limited Philippines recently launched “Seeds of Hope,” a nationwide tree-planting campaign that brought together over 200 volunteers from its properties, partners, and guests.
The activity spanned four key areas: Barangay Buhisan in Cebu, Barangay Panuran in Iloilo, Barangay Felisa in Bacolod, and Barangay Payatas in Quezon City. Each site held unique significance in the broader vision of environmental sustainability, with the Payatas initiative standing out for its historical and ecological transformation.
The most symbolic leg of the initiative took place at the Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility (PCDF) in QC, a site once infamous as Metro Manila’s largest dumpsite. Closed in 2010 after decades of waste accumulation, PCDF has been steadily transformed into what will soon be the Payatas Eco Park.
Ascott made history as the first hospitality brand to participate in this transformation, planting 85 indigenous tree saplings, which coincides with PCDF’s 85th anniversary. Volunteers, including Ascott employees, long-staying guests, and local media, planted species such as Narra, Molave, Palo Maria, and Bignay, all chosen for their ecological benefits and compatibility with the site’s natural environment.
These trees symbolize resilience and renewal, providing stability to the soil while promoting biodiversity. The flowering species, such as Palawan Cherry and Talisay, will support pollinators, while the larger trees will offer shelter for local wildlife.
Patrick Vaysse, Ascott Limited Philippines’ country general manager, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This site, once known for garbage, now holds the promise of green spaces and life. We are proud to contribute to a project that embodies hope and renewal.”
The Payatas activity was conducted in partnership with Rural Rising, a social enterprise that champions sustainability. According to Ace Estrada, the founder of Rural Rising, the event underscored the joy of planting and its deeper connection to community building and environmental stewardship.
The Quezon City government also lauded Ascott’s involvement, noting that the tree-planting effort aligns with their ambitious goal of planting one million trees in the city by 2030. Volunteers were also encouraged to come back and nurture the trees they planted, ensuring their long-term survival and impact.
Nationwide effort for sustainability
At Barangay Buhisan, Cebu, volunteers from Citadines Cebu City and lyf Cebu City planted 50 indigenous trees near the Buhisan Dam. The site is part of the Central Cebu Protected Landscape and plays a crucial role in flood prevention and water conservation. This effort also contributes to CarbonPH’s initiative to plant 10 million trees, which helps combat deforestation and reduce carbon emissions in the region.
Meanwhile, in Iloilo, the Citadines Amigo Iloilo team planted 200 tree saplings along a sub-watershed of the Jalaur River. As Panay Island’s second-longest river, Jalaur’s ecosystem stability is vital for water distribution and electricity generation. The newly planted trees will help prevent soil erosion and improve the natural flow of the river.
In Bacolod, Citadines Bacolod City partnered with Bioflyt to fertilize Barangay Felisa’s greening site using organic compost made from the property’s food waste. Volunteers planted 100 trees nourished by this sustainable fertilizer, showcasing a full-circle approach to waste management and land rehabilitation.
“Seeds of Hope” marked a shift in how Ascott Limited Philippines celebrates the holiday season, replacing traditional tree-lighting ceremonies with activities that give back to communities and the environment. This initiative is part of the Ascott Cares sustainability program, which continuously seeks innovative ways to reduce the company’s ecological footprint.
From the forests of Cebu to the evolving landscape of Payatas, the campaign proves the power of collaboration in creating greener, more sustainable communities. As the saplings take root, they serve as living reminders of hope, renewal, and the commitment to a better future for the Philippines.
