by: Subic Public Information Office
Subic, Zambales – A total of 5,000 mangrove seedlings were planted on Friday, February 6, in Sapao, Sitio Cabitaogan, Barangay Cawag, as part of a multi-sectoral effort to strengthen coastal protection and promote environmental sustainability.
The mangrove planting activity was spearheaded by the Pagsalba sa Bakawan ng mga Kababaihan ng Cawag – Women Managed Area (PBKC-WMA), led by its president Rose Dadula, highlighting the critical role of women-led organizations in environmental conservation and coastal resource management.
The initiative was supported by personnel from the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), together with members of several local fishermen’s associations. These included the Yellow Fin Calapacuan Fishermen Association, headed by Lilibeth Calalo; the Lower Matangeb Fishermen Association, led by Charity Morados; and the Pamana Agusuhin Fishermen Association, under Analyn Reclozado.
Representatives from partner organizations also joined the activity, including FarmC Chairman Rey Miranda, Jam Paclibar-Ortiz of Agila Shipyard, Rheagan Ecunar, Field Coordinator of PATH Foundation Philippines, and Barangay Cawag Councilors Bernard Valera and Roberto Garcia.
Mangrove forests play a vital role in sustaining marine biodiversity by serving as breeding grounds for fish and other marine species. They also provide natural protection for coastal communities by reducing the impact of strong waves, storm surges, and typhoons.
The successful planting of 5,000 mangrove seedlings underscores the importance of community-driven, collaborative approaches to environmental protection, climate change adaptation, and long-term coastal resilience.