From August 19-23, 2024, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB) hosted a week of productive training workshop on Science-Based Mangrove Rehabilitation Methods in Iloilo City. This event was held alongside the Policy Roll-Out of Department Memorandum Order No. 2024-01, which focuses on the Immediate Assessment of Abandoned, Undeveloped (Unused), and Underutilized (AUU) Areas.
Additionally, following the guidelines set forth in another Memorandum Secretary No. 2024-54 on Supplemental Guidelines for Enrichment Planting of Mangroves and Related Activities for Biodiversity Conservation and Coastal Resiliency, the event featured a combination of science-based theoretical discussions and on-site training.
Key highlights included
- exploring ecological considerations for mangrove growth,
- assessing species-specific site suitability,
- learning techniques for nursery establishment,
- and mastering the scientific identification of mangroves and other coastal vegetation.
- Another highlight of the workshop was the complexity and potential drawbacks of earthballing procedures where based on data presented by the DENR-Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (DENR-ERDB), it was concluded that earthballing is generally best avoided for mangrove conservation. The event also served as a platform for various conservation entities to share their experiences, providing valuable learning opportunities for all participants.
Uniting for Mangrove Conservation
The workshop brought together a diverse group of stakeholders united by a common mission to advance mangrove conservation. Government agencies in attendance included the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), representatives from the different DENR regional offices, and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Non-governmental organizations, aside from Oceanus are participants from the Wetlands International, Global Mangrove Alliance-Philippines, Rare Philippines, Forest Foundation Philippines, and the Zoological Society of London Philippines.
Oceanus Conservation was honored to be among these esteemed organizations. We presented our best practices and shared our experiences in mangrove conservation efforts. This collaborative engagement emphasizes the importance of collective action and science-based innovative approaches in addressing environmental challenges specifically in the mangrove ecosystems within our country.
Together, we continue to protect and restore our valuable mangrove ecosystems, ensuring their resilience and vitality for generations to come. Let us build on this momentum and work collectively towards a sustainable and thriving coastal environment!