The DENR-13 Regional Executive Director (RED) Nonito M. Tamayo challenged the 213 newly registered foresters who took their oath on December 18, 2023, at Big Daddy’s Hotel and Convention Center, Butuan City, during the First Caraga Mass Oath-Taking Ceremony of the New Foresters organized by the PRC Caraga in coordination with the Society of Filipino Foresters, Inc. (SFFI) Caraga Chapter. 

Those who took their oath before the Chairperson of the Board of Foresters and the event keynote speaker, Hon. Neria A. Andin, were newly registered foresters from Bohol Island State University, Caraga State University, Central Mindanao State University, Mindanao State University-Naawan Campus, Mindanao State University-Main Campus, Misamis University, North Eastern Mindanao State University-Bislig, North Eastern Mindanao State University-San Miguel, University of Eastern Philippines, University of Mindanao, University of Southern Philippines-Bislig Campus, and University of Southern Philippines-Tagum-Mabini Campus.

“I challenge you: be the catalysts for change, pioneers in sustainable practices, and pillars of community engagement. Be the best version of yourselves, not just as foresters, but as architects of a brighter future”, RED Tamayo said in his message during the event. 

“Together, let’s embark on this journey to redefine our wood industry and, in doing so, reshape our nation,” he added.

Instrumental to this first-ever Oath Taking of newly registered Foresters in Caraga is the support of the Society of Filipino Foresters, Inc. (SFFI) Caraga Regional Council Officers, headed by their President, DENR-Caraga Assistant Regional Director (ARD) for Technical Services, Forester Maritess M. Ocampo.

Some notable guests present during the event were the Regional Director of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Cheryll P. Elicano, and the SFFI National Council, led by their Senior Manager, Bresilda A. Gervacio.