Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1153)
The main policy is to call upon every citizen of the Philippines as a duty and obligation to conserve and develop the country's resources by planting trees.
Every citizen of the Philippines at least ten years old, actually residing in the country, unless physically disabled, is required to plant trees.
Every citizen must plant one tree every month for five consecutive years.
Trees can be planted on lands owned or leased by the family with the owner's consent, public grounds such as plazas, schools, markets, roadsides, parks, or public domain lands designated by the Presidential Council for Forest Ecosystem Management.
The trees to be planted shall be fruit-bearing, shade, ornamental, or forest trees.
The trees must be taken care of for at least two years after planting, and if they die, become diseased, or defective, they must be replaced.
The Presidential Council for Forest Ecosystem Management, in consultation with appropriate government agencies, shall issue necessary rules and regulations.
Violators may be fined up to one thousand pesos, disqualified from acquiring privileges granted exclusively to citizens such as acquiring public lands, enjoying franchises, or licenses involving natural resources, and be disqualified for five years from holding public office, graduating from educational institutions, taking board or civil service exams, and practicing professions regulated by the Supreme Court or Professional Regulation Commission.
It took effect upon its promulgation on June 6, 1977.
The purpose is to conserve and develop natural resources to prevent floods, droughts, erosion, and sedimentation, increase water supply, generate power, expand farm productivity, and promote a healthier ecosystem.