Failure to preserve mangrove ecosystems can lead to carbon emissions and negatively impact the livelihoods of communities that depend on them.
To mitigate coastal risks in vulnerable areas of Ilocos Norte, a collaboration between the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) was forged and officially launched on June 27, 2024 at the MMSU Review Center.
The project, "Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Sustainable Mangrove Management and Resilient Coastal Communities Through Innovative Green Engineering Approach,” under the leadership of Dr. Arlene Gonzalez of MMSU aims to enhance mangrove ecosystem resilience by implementing green engineering solutions in the project sites.
Dr. Gonzales found that among the challenges in mangrove restoration and mangrove plantation establishment are poor hydrological conditions, which significantly hinder the growth of young propagules. Technology-assisted plantations can be key to successfully establishing mangrove areas even in challenging conditions. Various green technologies will be showcased by the project in the municipalities of Badoc and Currimao, Ilocos Norte.
DOST-PCAARRD’s Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD) Director Noel A. Catibog emphasized the significance of the project stating, "The mangrove ecosystem is vital for the environment and the livelihoods of many local communities, especially in the Ilocos region. Through NbS, we aim to restore and sustain this ecosystem, ultimately enhancing the resilience of the communities that rely on them."
DOST-PCAARRD’s TTPD Director Noel A. Catibog delivering his message during the event. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Project Manager Analiza C. Diaz of DOST-PCAARRD’s TTPD highlighted the importance of a science-based approach, noting past failures in mangrove rehabilitation in the country. She explained that other than accessing new technologies, the project will also utilize locally-available and ecologically-friendly materials.
Given the current climate change impacts, this project is both timely and relevant. It stands out among the many programs successfully implemented by MMSU in Ilocos Norte, aiming to serve as a model for other areas in the country.
DOST-PCAARRD’s TTPD Supervising Science Research Specialist Yolanda M. Tanyag emphasized that the project’s success relies heavily on the active participation and support of the local government, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the local communities.
Representatives from the DENR and local government units who attended the launching expressed their support to the project, highlighting its potential to significantly improve local environmental and socio-economic conditions.
Professor Ronnel Pagurayan of MMSU and the project team facilitated and organized the project launch. The project will run from May 1, 2024 to April 30, 2026.