From providing habitat to a number of species to helping mitigate climate change, forests prove to be an integral part of our ecosystem. Unbeknown to some, forests are also crucial in protecting watersheds and regulating water supply. The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines has been hard at work in restoring forest cover in the country, thus contributing to improved water security. This year, WWF teamed up with leading mobile wallet, GCash, for the reforestation and protection of 300 hectares in Ipo watershed.

Forests for water

Billions of people all over the world depend on forests for resources such as food, shelter, and even water. Healthy forests in watersheds serve as natural filters, responsible for safeguarding the quality of water. Through its Forests for Water project, WWF-Philippines has been working towards the restoration of forests in Ipo watershed.

“It is not common knowledge that when you plant trees you also ensure water. This is the primary and most important function of the forest which is why we have continually been working to improve its state through our Forests for Water project,” said WWF-Philippines President and CEO Joel Palma.

Almost 18 million people rely on Ipo watershed with 98% of Metro Manila’s water supply coming from the Angat-Umiray-Ipo watershed system. Despite this fact, forest cover in the area has declined from 85% to 40% in recent years. The Forests for Water program goes beyond the planting of trees as it also focuses on forest management to ensure the growth and protection of trees. This includes both the reforestation of denuded areas and rehabilitation and enhancement of existing forests.