MMSU trains Ilocos Norte coastal towns on mangrove propagation and management

By Stephanie Camille Ilar
Strengthening the capacity of coastal local government units (LGUs) in Ilocos Norte in protecting and restoring mangrove ecosystems, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) conducted a Seminar-Workshop on Mangrove Propagation on October 27–28 at the Center for Flexible Learning (CFL).
The two-day training aimed to equip representatives from the coastal municipalities of Currimao, Pasuquin, Badoc, and Burgos with practical knowledge and skills in mangrove propagation, management, and conservation. Participants also included officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO).
The activity is part of the project titled “Nature-based Solutions for Sustainable Mangrove Management and Resilient Coastal Communities Through Innovative Green Engineering Approach,” led by Dr. Arlene Gonzales, faculty researcher and project leader of MMSU. The initiative is funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD).
Throughout the seminar-workshop, MMSU and partner experts delivered a series of lectures and hands-on sessions focused on strengthening the LGUs’ technical and institutional capacity in mangrove propagation. Topics included the importance of mangrove ecosystems, nature-based solutions for conservation, legal frameworks for mangrove protection, and the role of academe and LGUs in community-based management.
Participants were also trained on nursery management and advanced propagation techniques for 𝘈𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘢 and 𝘚𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘢 species, as well as other locally found mangrove varieties. The Pedada People’s Organization shared its success story in establishing a community-based mangrove conservation initiative, inspiring participants to replicate similar efforts in their municipalities.
In her message, Dr. Gonzales underscored the vital role of local governments in sustaining coastal ecosystems, emphasizing that collaboration among research institutions, LGUs, and community organizations is key to effective mangrove management.
“Through science-based and community-driven initiatives, we can restore and protect our mangrove forests, ensuring the resilience of our coastal communities for generations to come,” she said.
The seminar-workshop concluded with a commitment from all participating agencies and LGUs to strengthen partnerships and implement localized mangrove management strategies aligned with the project goals.
📸 Engr. Dane Samuel Bucao