The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) celebrated the 10th anniversary of its flagship environmental Project, the “10 Million Trees in 10 Years (10-10-10) Project,” reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and climate resilience. The event was hosted in partnership with AMPO Planting Coordinator Sidney R. Lee, whose long-standing involvement has helped mobilize community participation and corporate support.
NOCCI officers and trustees led by President Edward C. Du expressed gratitude to member companies and partners whose contributions have strengthened the program’s impact. Among the key supporters recognized were New Bian Yek Commercial (NBYC), DUCOMI Oil Mill, Energy Development Corporation (EDC), and Cartronix Transport Corp. Their sponsorship continues to play a critical role in advancing reforestation efforts across Negros Oriental.
The milestone celebration highlighted the business sector’s growing awareness on environmental stewardship, positioning the 10-10-10 Project as a model for private-sector–led sustainability initiatives in the Negros Island Region.
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) has reached a major environmental milestone—celebrating the 10th anniversary of its flagship program, the “10 Million Trees in 10 Years (10-10-10) Project.” This decade-long initiative showcases how private-sector leadership can drive meaningful climate action and community resilience. Launched to combat deforestation and promote sustainable ecosystems, the NOCCI project has become one of the region’s most successful reforestation models, planting millions of trees across Negros Oriental. Through strategic collaboration, local engagement, and unwavering commitment, NOCCI’s vision for a greener future continues to take root.
A Green Legacy: How NOCCI’s 10-10-10 Project Began
The 10-10-10 Project was born from a simple yet powerful goal: to plant 10 million trees within 10 years. What started as a local movement by NOCCI evolved into a large-scale environmental initiative uniting government agencies, business partners, and community volunteers. The project’s long-time planting coordinator, Sidney R. Lee, played a crucial role in mobilizing participation through the AMPO program, connecting corporate sponsors with grassroots organizations and local farmers. This collaboration turned a vision into reality, making Negros Oriental a model for environmental stewardship in the Philippines.
Community and Corporate Partnership: The Roots of Success
At the heart of the NOCCI 10-10-10 Project lies partnership. The Chamber’s officers and trustees, led by President Edward C. Du, expressed deep gratitude to its network of corporate supporters whose sustained sponsorship made the mission possible.
Key contributors include:
- New Bian Yek Commercial (NBYC) – providing continuous logistical and financial support.
- DUCOMI Oil Mill – integrating tree-planting programs into its CSR framework.
- Energy Development Corporation (EDC) – aligning its renewable energy initiatives with NOCCI’s sustainability goals.
- Cartronix Transport Corp. – offering transportation and manpower assistance for planting drives.
Through these collaborations, NOCCI has successfully blended environmental restoration with corporate responsibility, proving that sustainability and business growth can coexist.
The Impact: Restoring Ecosystems and Empowering Communities
Over the past decade, the NOCCI 10-10-10 Project has done more than plant trees—it has cultivated environmental awareness and community empowerment. Thousands of volunteers, students, and local residents have joined the effort, fostering a new generation of environmental advocates.
The results include:
- Reforestation of critical watershed areas that enhance water security.
- Increased biodiversity through native tree species rehabilitation.
- Livelihood programs for farmers engaged in seedling production and maintenance.
These outcomes demonstrate how the NOCCI project is helping Negros Oriental adapt to the effects of climate change while supporting inclusive local development.
A Model for Private-Sector–Led Sustainability
The success of the NOCCI 10-10-10 Project has inspired other chambers and business groups nationwide. Its long-term sustainability model—driven by private initiative, supported by corporate partnerships, and implemented with community collaboration—sets a new standard for environmental governance.
Through consistent reforestation, policy advocacy, and eco-awareness campaigns, NOCCI continues to reinforce that environmental protection is not just a government duty but a shared responsibility. Businesses now see climate action as an investment in the future rather than a cost.
The Next Ten Years: Growing Beyond Ten Million Trees
As NOCCI marks this milestone, it looks ahead to scaling its impact even further. Plans are underway to:
- Expand reforestation sites to new upland areas in Negros Island.
- Digitally track tree survival rates using GIS and AI technology.
- Develop carbon credit programs for participating companies.
- Educate youth leaders through green entrepreneurship workshops.
The Chamber envisions a greener, climate-resilient Negros Oriental where every business contributes to the environment’s regeneration. With renewed vigor, NOCCI commits to turning its 10-year milestone into a springboard for another decade of environmental leadership.
A Sustainable Future Rooted in Action
The 10 Million Trees in 10 Years Project stands as a living testament to what the private sector can achieve when sustainability becomes part of its DNA. Through partnership, perseverance, and purpose, NOCCI has transformed the Negros landscape—literally and figuratively. As the world grapples with the climate crisis, the NOCCI 10-10-10 Project shines as a beacon of hope and a blueprint for green growth. Ten years later, its message remains clear: planting trees is not just about restoring forests—it’s about nurturing a sustainable future for all.
