ILOILO — The Iloilo provincial government intensified its environmental protection drive by spearheading a mangrove planting activity in Barangay San Fernando, Barotac Viejo on April 8, highlighting the critical role of coastal ecosystems in disaster mitigation and sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative, led by the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO), formed part of the province’s 125th Semana sang Iloilo celebration and its observance of Earth Day on April 22, in partnership with the local government unit of Barotac Viejo.
Mangroves are salt-tolerant trees and shrubs that thrive in coastal intertidal zones. They serve as natural barriers that reduce the impact of storm surges and strong waves, prevent coastal erosion by stabilizing shorelines, and act as vital nurseries for fish and other marine species.
Mangroves also help improve water quality by filtering pollutants and store large amounts of carbon, making them crucial in combating climate change.
According to PGENRO, mangroves were deliberately prioritized due to their often-overlooked but vital function as natural barriers against storm surges and coastal erosion, while also serving as breeding grounds for marine life.
The agency noted that residents of Barangay San Fernando have shown strong awareness of the importance of mangroves, resulting in active community cooperation in the planting effort.
“With every propagules planted, there was a shared recognition of the role these small beginnings would play in safeguarding communities and sustaining livelihoods. In time, they will grow into a living testament to what can be achieved when communities come together, not only to celebrate milestones like the Semana sang Iloilo, but to act with intention for the future,” PGENRO said.
Participants in the activity included personnel from PGENRO, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and Gov. Niel Tupas Sr. District Hospital, along with Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque, Barotac Viejo town’s Mayor Nielo Tupas, 5th District Provincial Board Member Darl Tupas, and other local and barangay officials.
Vice Governor Debuque expressed gratitude to all participants, especially the residents of Barangay San Fernando who committed to nurturing the planted mangroves.
“Ang inyo pagpanikasog amo ang magapadayon sang sini nga inisyatibo. Mangroves protect our coasts, support marine life, and strengthen our communities against climate risks. More importantly, they remind us that caring for our environment is a shared responsibility. As we celebrate Semana sang Iloilo, let us not forget our role as stewards of the environment. What we do today helps shape a stronger and more sustainable province for the next 125 years and beyond,” Debuque said./PN
