The DAO tree

I am urging our LGUs, DPWH and DENR to plant Dracontomelon Dao or simply DAO, on our river banks instead of MAHOGANY. The invasive MAHOGANY is destructive and harmful to our local biodiversity. Its leaf litter is acidic and the tree itself has a tendency to over-absorb soil nutrients killing the other trees around it.

The DAO is one of our giants whose lumber is comparable in quality to Maple and Oak. It is  indigenous to the Philippines. It is suitable to be planted on or near riverbanks because its roots spread deep and wide, forming natural butresses that support the earth and prevent soil erosion. It can grow to an average height of 55 to 60 meters but there have been cases where it grew close to 90 meters. Traditionally, the dao has been used by the Aetas as a source of food through its fruits and flowers as well as a source of medicine through its bark and leaves. The canopy has a tendency to spread and cover a wide area. It is well suited for flood control and has been known to aide in landslide prevention.

2nd Picture was taken at TUBURAN after Agathon and Basiang hit the Philippines. Although there were news of how devastating the floods brought by Agathon and Basiang were, even destroying roads, the banks of the river that is protected by the Dao roots remain unperturbed.

1st and 3rd pictures are of the Dao I recently donated to the MAHIGA creek project spearheaded by a fellow VNTE. I have grown that dao from seed and am looking forward to lounge in its shade in the future.

If you want to reach out to us and invite us to speak in front of your school or barangay, especially in terms of the environment, we will be more than happy to work with you. We will be scheduling tree planting activities through out the rainy season and you are welcome to join us. We also have regular seed hubs (gatherings where we give out free seeds).If you have questions regarding your tree planting activities, you may send me a PM for inquiries or join Visayas Native Tree Enthusiasts You may also check out my Youtube channel for updates relating to our avtivities as a group! https://youtu.be/xkGAfwOp35w

#PromoteNativeTrees

#NoToInvasives

#SaveNativeTrees