Photo: Municipality of Morong Bataan
ORANI, BATAAN — A strengthened collaboration for environmental protection took center stage on March 23, 2026, as key stakeholders formalized their commitment to marine conservation through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Sagip Pawikan Conservation and Protection Project.
Led by AboitizPower through its GMEC-GNPD units, the initiative brings together the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Provincial Government of Bataan, the Local Government of Morong, and the Sagip Pawikan Sitio Fuerte Association.
Under the agreement, AboitizPower will adopt and support the Sagip Pawikan hatchery for five years—marking a significant step in sustaining and protecting the province’s marine biodiversity, particularly endangered sea turtles.
Andrea Melind Madrid, Vice President for Corporate Services of GMEC and GNPD, underscored the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful environmental action.
“At AboitizPower, we believe that protecting our environment requires strong partnerships. Through the Sagip Pawikan project, we are not only safeguarding endangered sea turtles but also empowering communities and preserving Bataan’s coastal ecosystems for future generations,” Madrid said.
Officials and representatives from partner institutions emphasized the urgency of collective action in addressing environmental challenges, particularly the protection of coastal ecosystems and mangrove forests, which serve as critical habitats for marine life.
Photo: Municipality of Morong Bataan
Leila Linao-Muñoz, Mayor of Morong, expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting the vital role of local communities in conservation efforts.
“This partnership is a testament to what we can achieve when government, private sector, and communities work together. Protecting our pawikan and coastal resources is not only our responsibility—it is our legacy for future generations,” she said.
The event also included a site visit to the Orani Mangrove Adoption and Conservation Area in Sitio Pulo, Barangay Kabalutan. Participants were given a closer look at ongoing conservation initiatives and community-led efforts to preserve natural resources.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the strengthened partnership will lead to more impactful and sustainable environmental programs in the years ahead. The initiative stands as a model of how collaboration among the private sector, government, and local communities can drive meaningful change in environmental conservation. (Dante M. Salvaña)