ALABEL, SARANGANI – In a significant move to strengthen coastal ecosystem conservation, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12, through the Protected Area Management Office-Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (PAMO-SBPS), has set up the first beach forest nursery at the Marine Wildlife Rescue Center in Barangay Ladol, Alabel, Sarangani Province.
The initiative, launched earlier this month, aims to restore and reinforce coastal vegetation, which plays a crucial role in protecting shorelines from erosion, providing habitats for marine and terrestrial wildlife, and enhancing overall biodiversity. The nursery will serve as a sustainable source of native beach forest tree species, including mangroves and other salt-tolerant plants, vital for maintaining ecological balance and mitigating the effects of climate change.
According to DENR 12, the nursery is a proactive step towards enhancing the resilience of coastal communities against environmental challenges such as storm surges and rising sea levels. The establishment process involved site preparation, seedling collection, and nursery bed construction.
Renowned Filipina marine scientist Dr. Jurgenne Primavera, affiliated with the Zoological Society of London, provided technical guidance in selecting suitable plant species and ensuring optimal growing conditions. Currently, the nursery is propagating key coastal tree species such as Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum), Bilobitoon (Barringtonia asiatica), Bani (Millettia pinnata), Talisay (Terminalia catappa), and Malabago (Hibiscus tiliaceus).
Beyond conservation efforts, the project will serve as a hub for capacity-building activities, equipping local stakeholders with essential knowledge on seed propagation, transplanting, and long-term seedling management. This training aims to bolster reforestation efforts along coastal areas and enhance the involvement of local communities in environmental protection.
Additionally, the nursery is expected to function as an educational and research facility for students, conservationists, and policymakers focusing on coastal ecosystem management. The initiative is seen as a long-term investment in marine biodiversity conservation, contributing to the broader goals of sustainable environmental management and climate adaptation.
With this pioneering effort, DENR 12 reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding Sarangani Bay’s coastal resources and fostering community participation in conservation initiatives.
