CABANGAN, Zambales — The local government unit of Cabangan, Zambales, along with volunteers and community stakeholders, held a mangrove tree planting activity in commemoration of the World Environment Month and Arbor Month this June.

LGU employees led by Mayor Ronald F. Apostol, Vice Mayor Leo F. Bringas, and Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Aiz P. Cabaltica, trooped to the coastline to plant about 1,000 mangrove saplings or “bakawan” to help stabilize the coastline and protect it against erosion.

Apostol said the project aims to create a living buffer zone against storm zone and flooding that may erode the coastline, as well as establish a sanctuary and spawning ground for fish and other marine life.

“This is not simply a commemoration of Environment Month, but a long-term investment for the safety, protection, and sustainable future for the next generation of Cabanganeans,” Apostol stressed to volunteers before planting.

The activity drew the support of various community and stakeholder groups, including officials of various barangays, and representatives from local offices of the Department of Education, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Army, Philippine Coast Guard, Provincial Agricultural and Fishery Council, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, and Community Environment and Natural Resources Office-Olongapo City. – Taktikom News & Features

PHOTO:

[Page 7 – 4a] Volunteers plant mangrove saplings along the coast of Cabangan, Zambales (Cabangan LGU)