General Santos City, January 30 – In a significant step towards environmental conservation, the Protected Area Management Office- Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (PAMO-SBPS) successfully led a mangrove planting activity at the Sarif Mucsin Boardwalk Ecotourism Park. Over 200 individuals from various local groups participated in the initiative, planting a total of 200 seedlings of Avicennia marina, a species of mangrove vital for coastal ecosystem restoration.
The event was conducted in support of the “A Thousand Forests” campaign, spearheaded by the Passionist Philanthropic Development Office. The campaign underscores the importance of reforestation efforts in mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity. Notably, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region 12 (DENR-12) provided scientific assistance to ensure the success of the activity and to promote awareness about the crucial role of forests in environmental sustainability.
The PAMO-SBPS highlighted the importance of selecting the right species for mangrove restoration, emphasizing that Avicennia marina, also known as Bungalon, is more challenging to propagate compared to the commonly planted Bakawan. This activity aims to correct previous missteps in planting mangroves in unsuitable areas, reinforcing best practices for ecosystem recovery.
Beyond planting trees, the initiative served as an avenue to encourage local communities, schools, private sectors, and other organizations to take active roles in environmental stewardship. By fostering collaboration and raising awareness, the effort contributes to long-term conservation strategies for mangrove forests, which serve as natural barriers against coastal erosion and provide essential habitats for marine life.
This collective endeavor not only strengthens mangrove conservation efforts but also brings renewed hope for the future of coastal ecosystems in Sarangani Bay.