Eti Rene Vendiola or “Tatay Eti” hails from Bacong, a town located in the province of Negros Oriental. In the past, he admitted he practiced “kaingin” farming, a traditional farming system that involves cutting and burning parts of the forest to make way for the planting of crops. However, later realized the negative impact of this farming method on the environment and became an advocate for forest conservation.

Rene’s advocacy for forest preservation is rooted in his experiences in the area. He was one of the first people to discover the beauty and abundance of life in Mt. Talinis. This discovery opened his eyes to the importance of preserving forests, not only for the environment but also for the many species that call it home.

One of Rene’s initiatives to promote forest preservation is by planting more trees. He is known for his efforts in the Liptong Woodland where he has planted numerous endangered trees. Through his actions, Rene hopes to inspire others to take a more active role in protecting the environment and preserving forests for future generations.