GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The Endangered Species International (ESI) Philippines is bolstering mangrove forest conservation in GenSan through its Roots Strong Project, launched in 2025 in Barangay Bula.
The initiative provides technical assistance and capacity-building support to local communities, particularly the Zone Six Small Fishermen Association (ZSFA), whose livelihood project contributes to mangrove protection.
“Barangay Bula was chosen because of its existing mangrove stands and the presence of an active people’s organization,” explained ESI Philippines Project Manager Richelda Galapia, noting that the project invests heavily in training, youth camps, and volunteer engagement.
Beyond nursery and planting activities, the program emphasizes youth involvement, instilling the importance of mangrove conservation while mobilizing student leaders and organizations for education campaigns.
In GenSan, identified mangrove areas include Bula, Baluan, Buayan, and Tambler.
Mangroves are vital breeding grounds for 70% of marine species and act as natural shields against storm surges and climate change, absorbing 30% more carbon dioxide than terrestrial trees.
ESI’s collaboration with the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), private partners like CMA CGM, and local communities extends to broader Coral Triangle conservation efforts.
Sarangani Bay, home to 24 mangrove species—including the critically endangered Camptostemon philippinense—is a global biodiversity hotspot.
Since 2021, the partnership has shown measurable ecological recovery, with increased coral cover and fish diversity.
Founder and President Pierre Fidenci said the Roots Strong model could be replicated in other coastal barangays along Sarangani Bay, urging volunteers and advocates to take part in mangrove planting and conservation activities.
###
0 Comments