LOON, BOHOL – In celebration of World Water Day 2025, Bohol Island Geopark, through the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO), led a significant mangrove enriching initiative in Basac, Loon, on March 22. This activity underscores the province’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability, coastal resilience, and biodiversity conservation.
A total of 640 mangrove seedlings were planted along the coastal stretch of Basac, strategically enhancing the area’s marine ecosystem. Avicennia (Bungalon) species were placed in the seaward zone, where their intricate root systems will help stabilize sediments, reduce wave impact, and support the natural filtration of seawater. Meanwhile, Rhizophora (Bakhaw) species were planted in the landward zone, where they will serve as critical buffers against storm surges, provide essential nursery habitats for marine life, and contribute to carbon sequestration efforts vital for climate change mitigation.
This initiative brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO Bohol), the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO Tagbilaran), the Bohol Provincial Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BOPEMPC), the Oro Integrated Cooperative (OIC), the College of Fisheries of Bohol Island State University-Calape Campus, the Historical Sophists Club from BISU-Main Campus, the Local Government Unit of Loon, Barangay Local Government Unit of Basac, and the 521st Naval Squadron Reserve-Bohol.
Following the planting activity, BPEMO personnel conducted a soil potting session, preparing an additional 468 mangrove seedlings. This proactive step ensures the sustainability of Bohol’s coastal conservation programs by maintaining a steady supply of seedlings for future reforestation efforts.
The initiative aligns with the Strategic Change Agenda of the Provincial Government under the leadership of Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado, emphasizing environmental sustainability as a key pillar of Bohol’s development strategy. Mangrove rehabilitation plays a crucial role in strengthening climate adaptation measures while safeguarding the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Furthermore, as a UNESCO Global Geopark, Bohol bears the responsibility of protecting its unique natural landscapes and geosites. Mangrove forests are vital in maintaining the ecological balance of these areas, reinforcing the province’s dedication to conservation and sustainable development. The restoration of mangrove ecosystems enhances Bohol’s resilience against environmental threats while preserving its rich biodiversity.
The observance of World Water Day 2025 in Bohol highlights the power of collective action in environmental stewardship. Through continued collaboration and proactive initiatives, the province remains steadfast in its mission to create a greener, more resilient future for generations to come. (Geopark/ML)