ILOILO City – To prevent coastal erosion, reduce disaster risks, and preserve mangrove ecosystems, the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) approved an ordinance establishing and protecting 100-meter-wide Coastal Greenbelt Zones in 32 coastal barangays as a long term climate resilience strategy.
The ordinance, approved on July 1, requires the establishment of Coastal Greenbelt Zones composed primarily of mangrove and beach forest species to serve as natural barriers against storm surges, sea-level rise, and other coastal hazards.
The measure also recognizes the ecological importance of mangrove forests as blue carbon sinks and as nursery grounds for fish, crabs, and other marine species while helping sustain the livelihoods of coastal communities.
To oversee implementation, the ordinance creates a Coastal Greenbelt Zone Committee chaired by the city mayor. The committee will prepare and implement a Local Coastal Greenbelt Management Action Plan covering rehabilitation, conservation, scientific monitoring, and community participation.
“Our mangrove forests are our first line of defense against storm surges, coastal erosion, and rising sea levels. By protecting and rehabilitating these ecosystems today, we are protecting both our environment and the lives of future generations,” said ordinance author Councilor Romel Duron.
Further, the ordinance prohibits the unauthorized cutting of mangroves, collection of propagules and seedlings without permits, illegal dumping of waste, gathering of firewood, reclamation and land conversion, destructive fishing methods, and the construction of structures within protected mangrove conservation zones.
Violators may face fines, imprisonment, cancellation of business permits for commercial establishments, and other penalties provided under the ordinance.
Funding for implementation will come from the city’s annual appropriations and other available environmental funds to ensure the long-term protection and management of Iloilo City’s coastal ecosystems.
“This is a whole-of-community approach. We are encouraging fisherfolk, environmental groups, schools, civil society organizations, and the private sector to become active partners in protecting our coastal resources because climate resilience is everyone’s responsibility,” said Duron.
The ordinance reflects Iloilo City’s commitment to balancing environmental protection with sustainable development.
“Protecting our mangroves is not simply about conserving trees. It is about protecting livelihoods, preserving marine biodiversity, reducing disaster risks, and ensuring that future Ilonggos inherit a healthier and more resilient coastline,” said Duron./PN
