By Daniel P. Tapaoan, Jr. 

A health and wellness tourism hub may soon develop at the Mariano Marcos State University main campus with more trees planted at the Biodiversity Conservation Learning Center and Leisure Park today, January 13. 

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis initiated the tree planting activity in the area, along with the university administrators, faculty, staff, and students. They planted 120 seedlings composed of 28 native tree species and two bamboo species. 

“This activity is in preparation of a bigger dream for this place,” President Agrupis expressed, declaring the soon-conversion of the biodiversity park into a 'Health and Wellness Tourism' hub. This plan will align with the establishment of the H & W Complex at the MMSU College of Medicine. 

Once developed, the hub "will serve those who want to revive and renew their physical and spiritual well-being," she added. 

The MMSU president bared the project has already gained endorsement from the provincial government, hoping the project will get adequate funding support from the Commission on Higher Education. 

Campus executive director Joselito Rosario said planting more trees in the biodiversity park will surely enhance the floral diversity of the area. “This will also benefit students and faculty who are using this area as a field laboratory for their classes,” he added. 

Tree planting has been a tradition and advocacy of the MMSU as part of its commitment to preserve the environment. This activity started in 2017 with the launching of the Green Wall project in the Batac campus. More trees have also been planted at Nagbacsan site, and in the Currimao, Dingras, and Laoag campuses. 

All of these are in pursuit of a vibrant and engaging, culturally-focused university campus, one of the ACHIEVE agenda of PSCA. These also serve as the university's contribution to the provincial government’s “Green Wall of Ilocos Norte” and the National Greening Program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. (JVBT/StratCom)