Through the science-based rainforestation approach, we plant and nurture native trees – trees adapted to a local area to ensure survival. When trees actually survive and become forests, we also bring back lifelines for communities, including yours. 

We all depend on forest watersheds for clean water, fertile soil, and stable climates. Each tree planted is a step toward rebuilding the natural heritage that sustains us all.

Forests planted by you

The movement is not just about tree planting, we grow communities and stewards of nature – as well as forests. Individuals like you, organizations, local governments, and Indigenous Peoples work hand-in-hand for a future where forests and people thrive together. Volunteers, local farmers, and partners help ensure that each seedling survives and that restored forests remain protected for generations to come.

By joining the movement, you become part of a collective force that turns hope into action.

A brief history

In the 90s, the Visayas State University (VSU) began to develop “Rainforestation Technology” under the leadership of Dr. Paciencia P. Milan, in partnership with the German Technical Cooperation Agency (GTZ). It is called a technology because it uses scientific knowledge for a specific application or purpose: to plant trees native to an area to restore an area’s natural ecosystem as closely as possible.

It seems to make sense, in hindsight. For years, reforestation meant planting trees and leaving them to grow on their own. Many of these trees were not native to the Philippines. This resulted in either high rates of fatality or the opposite – invasive species suffocating native ones in competition for resources such as water and sunlight. This does not lead to a functioning forest that provides homes for local birds, and water for communities.

In 2002, Haribon and the VSU committed to adopting Rainforestation Technology. In 2005, an environmental movement called ROAD to 2020 or Rainforestation Organizations and Advocates began.

With ROAD to 2020 partners and networks, Haribon helped mainstream Rainforestation, which helped give way to DENR-issued Memorandum Circular 2004-06, providing for the integration of this technology in bringing back forests. Haribon and other advocates also championed Rainforestation Technology at the National Consultation on Rainforest Restoration in 2005.

Today, Haribon continues its work to mainstream rainforestation with the Forests for Life Movement. You too can join the movement by adopting seedlings, forests, and volunteering.

Join the movement

Adopt a seedling

Every ₱488 you donate to the long-term rainforestation program of HARIBON® helps plant a Philippine native tree to key biodiversity areas and provide additional income to partner farmers and communities who are protecting the forests – and your health – for three whole years.

ADOPT A SEEDLING

Adopt-a-forest

Have your company or organization join the movement by either adopt-a-forest, or planting one yourselves. Email us at partnerships@haribon.org.ph for more information.

Volunteer

Tree plantings take place every rainy season to help ensure temperatures are cool enough. This also ensures seedlings are watered regularly by nature, as they strengthen into forests. The tree planting season usually lasts between October to November.

Return here for updates, or follow us on social media for the latest news on tree plantings and other volunteer opportunities.

Partners

The movement is composed of*:

• 289 Corporate sponsors
• 31 Partner municipalities
• 19 Partners communities

*From 2006 to 2024

How many trees should you plant?

As many trees as possible! Try this carbon counter by the Green Convergence network to get a general idea of how many trees you can plant to help offset your carbon footprint: https://aab-household-ghg.web.app/survey

Forests For Life Movement sites in the following KBAs, PAs and Watershed Areas

• Aurora Memorial National Park (AMNP)
• Bicol Natural Park (BPN)
• Caliraya-Lumot Watershed Forest Reserve (CLWFR)
• Community-Based Forest Management Area, Subic Zambales
• Kaliwa River Forest Reserve (KRFR)
• Mts. Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape (MBSCPL)
• Pantabangan-Carranglan Watershed Forest Reserve (PCWFR)
• Presidential Proclamation (PP) No. 1636 – Quezon, Rizal, Laguna and Bulacan as National  Park, Wildlife Sanctuary and Game Preserve.
• Sitio Malalim Communal Forest, Baras Rizal
• Zambales Mountains