ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR – In observance of National Climate Change Consciousness Week, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region IX (DENR IX) spearheaded a series of impactful activities aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability. The initiatives, which included a coastal cleanup, mangrove propagule planting, and a seminar on sustainable food systems, showcased the collective effort of various stakeholders in addressing climate challenges.
Courtesy of DENR IX.
Mangrove Planting and Coastal Cleanup in Labangan
On November 18, DENR IX, in partnership with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Ramon Magsaysay, organized an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) session, followed by a mangrove planting and coastal cleanup in Barangay Combo, Labangan.
The event gathered 100 volunteers, including representatives from DENR IX, CENRO Ramon Magsaysay, PENRO Zamboanga del Sur, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) IX, and the Philippine Army’s 1st Field Artillery Battalion and 1st Cavalry Battalion.
Volunteers planted 350 mangrove propagules and collected 65 sacks of waste, comprising plastics, clothing, and other debris, from the coastal area. Forester Rodel S. Arabes led the IEC session, emphasizing the critical role of mangroves in shielding coastlines from erosion, supporting biodiversity, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Advancing Sustainable Food Systems
Continuing the weeklong celebration, DENR IX hosted a seminar on November 19 focusing on sustainable food systems. The workshop, held at the DENR IX lobby, featured speakers from Kids Who Farm Sustainable Food Systems, Inc.
Moncini A. Hinay, Co-Founder, President, and CEO, delivered an inspiring talk on sustainable agriculture’s role in enhancing food security and combating climate change. He highlighted practices that protect biodiversity and promote eco-friendly food production. Jomer Mukail introduced Gardenator, a tool designed to facilitate community-based gardening projects, enabling individuals to grow their own food sustainably.
This seminar, organized in collaboration with the Gender and Development and PWD-SC Affairs offices, underscored the significance of localized food systems in fostering resilience and equity, inspiring participants to take actionable steps toward sustainability.
A Unified Effort for Climate Action
Both events aligned with the theme of this year’s Climate Change Consciousness Week: “Aksyon at Adapsyon ng Makabagong Henerasyon”. They underscored the importance of community engagement and innovative solutions in addressing the climate crisis.
The mangrove planting and cleanup initiative highlighted the importance of grassroots participation in preserving natural ecosystems, while the Foodloop seminar emphasized the transformative potential of sustainable food systems in mitigating climate impacts.
As the week drew to a close, DENR IX’s activities not only reinforced environmental awareness but also demonstrated the power of collaboration in creating lasting change. From restoring coastal ecosystems to reimagining food production, these initiatives serve as a testament to the growing commitment of communities and organizations to combat the pressing challenges of climate change.
