The Pista Y Ang Kagueban, a Cuyuno dialect which means “Pista ng Kagubatan” was conceptualized by the then Palawan Integrated Area Development Project Office (PIADPO) in 1991. This is to institutionalize the protection and conservation of the environment for the youth. Irawan watershed was selected as the primary area for the tree planting site.
The first Pista Y Ang Kagueban was held in June 1991. It was in that same year the United Nations declared the month of June as Environment Month. With little anticipation, the activity turned out to be an enormous success beyond expectations in two years.
The event was supported by public and private schools from all levels led by students, participated in by civic organizations, Government & Non-Government Organizations, government employees, tourists from around the world, famous personalities in politics, dignitaries, and individuals from all walks of life. Live performances of invited popular celebrities from the entertainment world stood out in the event. The Pista was turned into a grand gesture sparkled with other glittering entertainment and festivities such as dancing, singing, playing games and all other presentations, making it “a way of life for all generations.”
Through the Pista Y Ang Kagueban, more than 2 million trees have been planted from 1991 to 2009 such as Balayong, Nara, Agoho, Ipil-Ipil, Mahogany, Mangium, Gmelina and a lot more indigenous plants. The survival rate is 70%-80%. More than 200 hectares of stripped forest mountains in Bgy. Irawan and Bgy. Sta. Lourdes have been rehabilitated.
Be a part and experience the fulfillment of helping regenerate our forest.
