It originally housed 57 varieties of plants from fruit-bearing, beach forest, and upland species of trees.

The native trees have significant meanings that connect to the province’s municipalities, symbolizing the rich history and culture of the province.

For instance, the arboretum has Dao and Jamindang tree species, after which Dao and Jamindan towns got their names.

The collection also includes Dapdap, Agojo, and Jamul-awon trees, which barangays Dapdapan in Sapian town and Jamul-awon as well as Agojo in Panay town were named.

Subsequently, Jose Cardinal Advincula led the tree-growing and establishment of the Jose Cardinal Advincula Groove of Philippine Native Trees on June 21, 2021, at the Archbishop’s Residence in Brgy. Lawaan, here.

The groove was planted with 45 native trees, which correspond to the 45 years of the Cardinal in the ministry at the time the groove was established, just days before his official installation as the 33rd Archbishop of Manila.

The cardinal is a nature lover and tree enthusiast.

Another arboretum project was established by the Capiz Ecology and Conservation Center (CECC) of the Capiz State University (CapSU) - Pontevedra town campus, which is presently growing 72 native trees in about a hectare site.

The CapSU arboretum of Philippine Native Trees houses Magtalisay, Kupang, Iloilo, Bagras, Narra, Dangkalan, Dungon Latè, Himbabalud, Balai Lamok, Tapiyay, Banilad, Nato, Salong, Bita, Lipote, Dapdap, Bagawak, Bagawak Morado, Bani, Molave, Pangi, Baguilumbang, 

He added that a nursery of native trees will also be established at the targeted area, a National Greening Program site.

"We are planning to make the area an ecopark," Cullo noted, adding that the project is a big help and boost in the province's reforestation efforts and campaign to bring back the native trees.

The CaPENRO official is hopeful that the project will jumpstart by December after final arrangements have been made with the DENR. 

The arboretum will also serve as a knowledge site about the country's native trees. (AGP/AAL/PIA Capiz)