As a welcome gift to the newly appointed Archbishop of Cebu, the Most Rev. Alberto “Abet” Uy, Gov. Pamela Baricuatro signed Executive Order No. 56 to establish “Laudate Deum Si” Tree Parks across the province.
This initiative was announced by Gov. Baricuatro during a welcome dinner hosted by the Cebu Provincial Government at the Capitol Social Hall on Monday evening, Sept. 29.
The executive order’s title, “Laudate Deum Si,” is inspired by Pope Francis’s 2023 apostolic exhortation on the climate crisis. Archbishop Uy, an environmental advocate who previously initiated similar parks in Bohol, had appealed to the governor to replicate the effort in Cebu before his reassignment.
“The Province of Cebu commits to the establishment, maintenance, and stewardship of Laudate Deum Si’ Tree Parks (LSTPs) in every component city, municipality, and selected barangays as a central pillar of its environmental protection and climate resilience strategy. The LSTP Program shall advance the Province’s commitment to safeguard ecological balance, improve public health, promote education, create sustainable livelihoods, and foster interfaith and civic collaboration,” the governor’s EO reads.
“These tree parks will not only be spaces of greenery but living sanctuaries of hope for generations to come,” Gov. Baricuatro said, quoting an earlier text message from Archbishop Uy.
Known for his simplicity, compassion, and love for the poor, Archbishop Uy was welcomed by Gov. Baricuatro with hopeful anticipation. His Excellency’s approach to shepherding the flock aligns with the governor’s people-centered governance, characterized by inclusivity, transparency, humility, and care.
“Cebu stands ready to walk with you. And I assure you that, despite the separation of church and state, the Cebu Provincial Government will continue to partner with the church in upholding the values that unite us: faith, integrity, compassion and service to the people,” Gov. Baricuatro said.
She also expressed her gratitude to Archbishop Jose Palma for his dedicated spiritual guidance to the Cebuanos over the years.
Joining the governor in welcoming Archbishop Uy were members of the Provincial Board, led by Vice Governor Glenn Soco, retired Chief Justice Hilario Davide, Jr, Cebu City Vice Mayor Tommy Osmeña, Danao City Mayor Nito Durano, clergy of Tagbiliran, Bohol, family
