Members of the UC Emergency Response Volunteers – Higher Education Institution (ERV-HEI) participated in the seminar titled “Native Trees for the Cordilleras: Choosing the Right Trees for Parks, Campuses, and Public Spaces to Support Well-Being and Biodiversity” on May 2, 2026, at St. Nicholas Chapel, Brent International School in Baguio City .

Facilitated by Jonathan Ethan O. Hernandez , the seminar highlighted the importance of selecting appropriate native tree and flowering plant species suited for urban, riparian, and grassland ecosystems in the Cordillera region. Discussions emphasized the role of native vegetation in promoting biodiversity , environmental sustainability , and healthier public spaces .

As part of the activity, ERV-HEI members actively joined the tree-planting session and assisted in the proper planting procedures demonstrated during the program. Through their participation, the organization further strengthened its commitment to environmental stewardship , sustainability awareness , and community involvement in ecological conservation initiatives.