Tan Holdings unveils tree planting initiative

Responding to the increasing demand for improved environmental stewardship in the CNMI, Tan Holdings launched over the weekend its first ever tree planting project as part of its Going Green initiative.

Some 50 executives and managers from various Tan Holdings affiliates were up early on Saturday to volunteer for the event that involved the planting of 70 tree saplings at the Susupe Beach Park which the diverse holding company has adopted for several years.

The tree saplings—comprised of nonak, kafu, daok, and talisai trees—along with the fertilizer tablets were provided by the Mariana Islands Nature Alliance which was represented at the event by its executive director Sam Sablan and board member Ryan Okano.

Tan Holdings president Jerry Tan, who planted the first sapling by the seashore, said in his remarks that the tree planting project is the “beginning of another environmental effort” in addition to monthly beach cleanups, recycling program, and sponsorship of MINA’s Adopt-A-Bin program.

He urged Tan Holdings executives and managers to continue the project, saying that planting trees and flowers throughout the island is needed for the revival of the CNMI’s tourism industry as affirmed by a top Japanese tourism executive during one of Tan’s recent off-island trips.

“It’s what tourists would like to see here compared to other competing destinations,” Tan said as he emphasized that the tree planting project is not only important for tourists but also for the local community.

Century Insurance finance manager Rene Cariaso, who helped dig the soil where the saplings will be planted, said he immediately confirmed his presence when Tan Holdings management called for volunteers for the event.

“I feel satisfied and fulfilled knowing that I have done my part to help minimize erosion and its impact to our oceans,” Cariaso told Saipan Tribune.

Fiesta Resort accounting manager Noemi Catigan, who echoed Cariaso’s fulfillment, said she plans to check on the three trees she helped plant as well as share with her daughter the importance of planting trees to the environment.

“It’s really essential that she learns about the value of trees to preserve the environment for her own future,” said Catigan.

Fiesta Resort public and employer relations manager Elena Soll, for her part, said the launching of the tree planting project is a “monumental” feat for Tan Holdings in its efforts to save the environment.

“Tree planting doesn’t have to be a big event,” Soll pointed out. “You can plant a tree anytime and in your own backyard. We should encourage planting trees because trees are beautiful.”

The tree planting project is only one of several projects which Tan Holdings will carry out to help the environment, according to Tan Holdings vice president for finance Lina Dimaano, who has spearheaded the company’s Going Green initiative.

Dimaano said the tree planting project will be conducted by Tan Holdings at least on a quarterly basis. “This is also part of our commitment from Tan Holdings to really always have a greener environment,” she said.

MINA executive director Sablan said in an interview that Tan Holdings has been the leading business organization participating in environmental efforts on Saipan.

“I think it’s really great. I just wish that other businesses would look at Tan Holdings as a model, the icon for businesses going green,” she said.

Sablan noted the importance of businesses getting involved in environmental efforts in the community.

“Businesses influence the consumers in how they act, how they behave, how they think,” said Sablan. “They’re in the forefront of changing behaviors… For the business to take on the initiative to really lead and change the behavior in the community, it’s important because they deal directly with the community as a whole and they have a broader impact in getting the community to change their ways.”

Sablan urged the rest of the community to do their share in protecting the environment.

“I know the economy is really taking a toll in how we behave. But always think long-term on what we can do as a community member. Think about your children. Even if it requires you to suffer today, so be it so long as you provide enough for the future generations. Again, it’s all about committing yourself today for our tomorrow,” she said.