In line with the Iloilo Science and Technology University 8th Charter Anniversary, the Dumangas Campus hosts the Mangrove Planting and Coastal Clean-up Activities on May 17, 2023.
This Social and Environmental activity was shared by the campus among other activities conducted by other campuses of ISAT U in the weeklong celebration of the university’s Charter Day, from May 15-19, 2023.
The event was held at the Coastal Road of Barangay Dacutan, Dumangas, Iloilo and joined by ISAT U across its five Campuses, in cooperation with the Dumangas Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) and Zoological Society of London (ZSL).
Dr. Liane D. Defiño, Environmental Officer of the campus and activity in-charged mentioned in her Welcome Message that mangroves can store 5 to 10 times more carbon than land ecosystems. She added 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 vulnerable communities from rising sea levels and storm surges,” Dr. Defiño explained.
In addition, Mr. Richardson Medina of the ZSL oriented the more than 200 participants on the proper ways of handling and planting of the seedlings.
More than 300 seedlings of Pagatpat Tree were planted and it was expected to grow and protect the municipality from storm surges, especially in its coastal areas in the future.
Along with the Mangrove Planting activity, Clean-Up Drive was also joined by all the participants in the coastal areas of the venue.
The group rested and soothe their tired bodies with a snack with matching sunset viewing and unlimited picture taking after the activity.