Iloilo Science and Technology University Dumangas Campus hosted the Mangrove Planting and Coastal Clean-up Activities as part of the 8th Charter Anniversary on May 17, 2023.
These social and environmental activities were spearheaded by the Campus, along with the series of activities conducted by other campuses of ISAT U during the weeklong Charter Anniversary celebration.
The event was held at the Coastal Road of Barangay Dacutan, Dumangas, Iloilo and was participated in by the five campuses. It was made possible through the cooperation of Dumangas Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) and Zoological Society of London (ZSL).
In her message, Environmental Officer Dr. Liane D. Defiño emphasized that mangroves can store for up to 10 times more carbon than land ecosystems. She mentioned that it can protect the coastlines and restore biodiversity in marine ecosystems.
“With your support and cooperation, we can prevent soil erosions and restore our mangrove forests to protect the vulnerable communities from the rising sea levels and storm surges,” Dr. Defiño added.
Mr. Richardson Medina of the ZSL also oriented the more than 200 participants on the proper ways of handling and planting the seedlings.
More than 300 seedlings of Pagatpat Tree were planted. These trees will protect the Municipality from possible storm surges, especially in its coastal areas in the future.
Along with the Mangrove Planting activity, a Clean-Up Drive was also done along the coastal areas of the barangay.
Written by: Dr. Lowell De La Torre – PICO Coordinator, Dumangas Campus
