THE Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) has cited the contributions of the Department of Agriculture (DA) in laying the groundwork for the planned establishment of a pioneering Philippine Native Tree Species seedbank in the country, a top official said.

DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Herbosa said DA's technical assistance and expertise would ensure the proper and efficient conservation, propagation and cultivation of native trees and flora to boost restoration efforts of dwindling upland watersheds and forest covers in various parts of the country.