Students and faculty members from the Department of Biological Sciences of Angeles University Foundation, together with the Save the Trees Coalition, conducted a re-survey and monitoring of the 259 roadside trees along Friendship Highway to assess their current condition and support urban forest conservation efforts.
Held on July 3, the activity involved 20 BS Biology students, seven faculty members, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens. The survey revisited trees documented from 2020 to 2023, evaluating the effects of recent road construction and extensive pruning. The 259 trees have been under an Environmental Protection Order issued by the Court of Appeals since 2024.
Before the fieldwork, participants received a technical orientation on using QField and Clinometer mobile applications for tree measurements and geospatial mapping, along with a biosafety briefing on roadside survey protocols.
The teams surveyed 237 trees along the Friendship Highway corridor, documenting species, GPS location, trunk diameter, height, structural condition, and potential hazards. Initial observations noted over-pruning, signs of tree injuries possibly caused by burning, and portions of the green corridor being used as open dumpsites.
The Save the Trees Coalition said the updated data will help promote evidence-based urban forest management and strengthen efforts to protect Angeles City’s remaining mature trees.
Volunteers also gathered feedback from tricycle drivers, roadside vendors, and business owners, many of whom expressed support for preserving the trees while recognizing the need for proper pruning to ensure public safety. Several shared that the trees provide much-needed shade and help support their daily livelihoods.
The AUF Department of Biological Sciences said it will continue research and monitoring activities, including studies on carbon capture and the ecological role of urban trees. Meanwhile, the Save the Trees Coalition will continue its MacArthur Highway Tree Inventory and Assessment, with volunteer opportunities to be announced through its official Facebook page.
