SARANGANI PROVINCE — In celebration of Ocean Month 2025, various government agencies and partners in Sarangani launched a series of impactful events that spotlighted ocean conservation and climate action. From collecting coastal seedlings to showcasing marine wildlife and inspiring youth through art, the activities reflected the theme “Unlocking Ocean-Based Solutions to Climate Change,” with the call to action, “Karagatan ang Solusyon.”
Coastal Cleanup Yields Seedlings for Reforestation in Kiamba
In Brgy. Kling, Kiamba, a coastal cleanup led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) CENRO Kiamba on May 22 turned into a reforestation initiative. Volunteers not only cleared marine debris but also collected around 600 seeds of Talisay (Terminalia catappa) and 100 wildlings of the native “Bituon” tree.
These species are known for their role in stabilizing coastlines, reducing erosion, and protecting communities from storm surges and rising sea levels. The seedlings were brought to CENRO Kiamba’s nursery for propagation, contributing to long-term goals of beach forest restoration and climate resilience.
Marine Wildlife Exhibit Educates SarBay Fest Goers
Meanwhile, in Glan, the Protected Area Management Office of Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (PAMO-SBPS), in collaboration with PENRO Sarangani and the Environmental Conservation and Protection Center (ECPC), held a wildlife exhibit from May 23–25 during the SarBay Festival at Reyes Beach in Gumasa.
The exhibit featured 16 preserved specimens of coastal and marine wildlife—including dolphins, turtles, and sharks—serving as educational tools to raise awareness on biodiversity and marine conservation. Interactive games and guided tours made environmental learning engaging for both tourists and locals, reinforcing Sarangani Bay’s ecological importance.
The activity also coincided with the International Day for Biological Diversity, further emphasizing the value of preserving marine ecosystems in global conservation efforts.
Youth Artists Champion Ocean Advocacy in GenSan Poster Contest
Capping the celebration, a poster-making contest organized by CENRO General Santos City was held on May 29 at SM Mall of GenSan. Young artists showcased their charcoal artworks reflecting the ocean’s role in climate change mitigation.
Brent Beo Magbanua emerged as the top winner, with Renejun Navalta Jr. and Adrian Ski securing second and third places, respectively. All participants received recognition and prizes from supporting partners, including Melts Corporation, Dole Philippines, and Alsons Development.
The entries were exhibited from May 30 to June 4, allowing the public to appreciate the youth’s vision of oceans as climate solutions. The contest was co-organized with the DENR Regional Office XII’s Coastal Resource and Foreshore Management Section, and supported by a host of local stakeholders and private organizations.
A Unified Message: Oceans are Our Future
The coordinated events across Sarangani Province not only highlighted the region’s rich marine biodiversity but also underscored the vital role of community action, environmental education, and creative expression in protecting our oceans.
As Sarangani continues to face the challenges of climate change, these initiatives remind everyone that ocean-based solutions are not only necessary—but achievable through unity, awareness, and sustained action.