To celebrate Philippine Arbor Day, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), through its Environmental Concerns, Sustainability, and Development Unit, led a Banaba Tree Growing Drive at the Central Administration Complex in Raois, Bacnotan, La Union on June 25, 2025.

DMMMSU President Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., along with other University officials, led the activity and collectively planted 20 Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa) seedlings, an indigenous medicinal tree valued for its therapeutic properties and ecological significance.

The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) supported the initiative by providing the seedlings, signifying a strong and ongoing partnership in promoting environmental sustainability between the University and local government. (By Celso H. Jucutan)