NAVAL, Biliran -- Instead of cutting down trees, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) - Biliran District Engineering Office (BDEO) conducted relocation of the iconic Indian trees of the Municipality of Almeria.

The said trees alongside the highway of Almeria served as the landmark of the town, not only giving beauty and shade but also played an important role during calamities.

In an appeal of the people of Almeria to preserved the trees, DPWH-BDEO implore an alternative way to protect these trees.

On June 4, 2022, DPWH-BDEO, in coordination with Brian Sinagote of LGU-Almeria and his team, already took the first step in relocating the said trees with the assistance from the contractor E.G. Canabe Construction.

According to District Engineer Briones, the trees were being moved to the edge of the widened road so as to retain the ambiance of the road once the construction is finished.

“Although this is not our field of expertise, we are doing our best in preserving these trees that stood firmly through the tests of time, reflecting the very people of the Municipality of Almeria. We are optimistic that the said relocated trees will flourish in their new location,” said Briones.

The said road widening project is implemented from Sitio Pitugohan, Brgy. Jamorawon to Pob. Almeria, Biliran with a length of 2.612 lane kilometers including drainage and slope protection. The project has a contract amount of P33-M funded under 2022 General Appropriations Act (GAA). (DPWH-BDEO)