BAGUIO CITY, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Baguio Bureau) – Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Roy Cimatu on Saturday ordered the counting of Pine trees in this city so that the agency could take steps to preserve and protect them.

“I am really worried that Baguio is losing its pine trees. This is the city’s trademark that is why I alerted my staff in the DENR and Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) to conduct an ecosystem research, specifically on pine trees to extend its (Sic) life span,” Cimatu said on the sidelines of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) alumni homecoming.

But Cimatu’s order is now moot and academic.

There are no more Baguio Pine trees to count or preserve.

A little too late.