RLC Residences, the residential arm of Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), recently held a tree-planting activity at Forbes Estates Lipa. As the development’s first official on-site initiative, the event firmly placed environmental stewardship among its earliest priorities.
Forbes Estates Lipa is an upcoming 21-hectare, low-density residential enclave in Lipa, Batangas. During the activity, participants planted 73 trees across the property from five species—banaba, siar, Palawan cherry, dita, and bani.
The species were chosen for their resilience, suitability to the area, and value in supporting local biodiversity. By planting them at the outset, RLC Residences began shaping a greener environment for the families who will call the community home. As the trees mature, they can provide shade and help create more comfortable outdoor spaces where residents can walk, rest, gather, and spend time in nature.
The activity was led by Teddy V. Bernas, Senior Vice-President and Business Unit General Manager of RLC Residences, alongside Dan Carlo Torres, Head of Marketing at RLC Residences. Sales agents from Robinsons Property Marketing and Management Corporation (RPMMC), which markets RLC Residences developments, also took part.
Both Bernas and Torres planted trees with their children and the participating families, demonstrating leadership by example and giving visible expression to Robinsons Land’s care for the environment.
“Buying a home is a long-term decision, and the same principle applies to caring for the environment,” Torres said. “The trees planted today will take years to mature, but their benefits can be enjoyed for decades by the families who will eventually call Forbes Estates Lipa home.”
The initiative reflects RLC Residences’ approach to responsible development, which regards care for the environment and the well-being of future residents as important measures of a community’s long-term success. RLC Residences also recognizes that the setting around a home contributes to the quality of everyday living, with trees and green spaces supporting comfort, recreation, relaxation, and a closer connection with nature.
The activity also engaged families from the surrounding Lipa community. Nine children ages 2 to 14 joined their parents or guardians from Parents and Educators Nurturing Cooperation and Integrity in La Salle, Inc. (PENCIL Inc.), an association of parents and educators at the nearby De La Salle Lipa.
After planting, the children and families wrote their names on temporary markers placed beside their trees. Engraved metal plates bearing their names will later replace the markers, creating a lasting connection to the property.
In time, the participants will be able to return and see how the trees have grown. Their contributions will long remain part of the Forbes Estates Lipa landscape.
“Planting a tree is an act of selfless service because we nurture something today that future generations will benefit from tomorrow,” said Leezandra Japlos, president of PENCIL Inc. “Like raising children, nurturing trees requires patience, care, and the right environment for growth.”
As the trees mature, they will stand throughout Forbes Estates Lipa as a living legacy of Robinsons Land’s and RLC Residences’ commitment to sustainability, environmental care, and the well-being of generations to come.
