Volunteers have planted mangrove seedlings at the Bacutan Pawikan Sanctuary and Mangrove Reserve in Barangay Astorga, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. This initiative significantly contributes to mangrove reforestation efforts, which play a crucial role in protecting coastal ecosystems, supporting marine biodiversity, and strengthening natural defenses against storm surges and coastal erosion.
Corporate and Community Collaboration
ABOITIZ Renewables, Inc., the renewable energy division of Aboitiz Power Corporation, actively participated in the planting of 500 mangrove seedlings and a coastal cleanup at the Bacutan Pawikan Sanctuary and Mangrove Reserve in Sitio Bacutan, Barangay Astorga, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. The event was organized by the Ecological Conservation and Humanitarian Organization (ECHO) cares, a group comprising mountaineers, emergency responders, humanitarian volunteers, and environmental advocates. Agri Exim supported the initiative by purchasing the mangrove seedlings from the Bacutan Mangrove Growers Association and the Sta. Cruz Municipal Council.
Environmental and Social Benefits
The newly planted mangroves will enhance coastal protection, bolster marine biodiversity, and improve environmental resilience in the area. The Bacutan Pawikan Sanctuary and Mangrove Reserve serves as a vital nesting site for pawikan (sea turtles) and a habitat for diverse marine life. Mangrove forests act as natural barriers against erosion and storm surges while providing breeding grounds for marine species. Additionally, they function as carbon sinks, helping mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Voices from the Initiative
Connie Baldomero, Vice President of ECHO, emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, "We need to remain active in participating in activities that care for our environment and serve as good examples for the youth through community efforts such as tree planting and coastal cleanups. These initiatives also support local communities because the mangrove seedlings are purchased from them."
Noreen Vicencio, First Vice President and General Manager for Hydro Operations at Aboitiz Renewables, highlighted the significance of protecting biodiversity, especially around World Wildlife Day. "Through this mangrove planting and coastal cleanup activity with ECHO and our local partners, we hope to help safeguard coastal habitats while empowering communities to become active stewards of the environment."
Broader Corporate Commitment
Aboitiz Renewables operates 11 run-of-river hydropower facilities across Mindanao, including the Tudaya 2 plant in Barangay Astorga. This mangrove planting initiative reflects the company's ongoing efforts to support environmental conservation and strengthen community resilience in its host communities, aligning with global sustainability goals.
