The Ilocos Norte government on Wednesday urged coastal communities to take good care of their existing mangrove forests to protect marine life and safeguard it from the impacts of climate change.

In time for the month-long observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month this July, Michael Pe Benito, representative of the Provincial Resiliency Office, said almost 2,000 mangrove propagules were planted on Tuesday in the coastal village of Davila in Pasuquin town, in an effort to save the remaining naturally-grown mangrove forests that continue to decline in number over the years.

“This was made possible through the support of various government agencies such as members of the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Army as well as the Barangay Ranger Officers (BROs) and the local government unit of Davila and Pasuquin,” he said, adding that the newly-planted mangrove area covers approximately one hectare.

To ensure the growth of the propagules, Pe Benito said they have sought the assistance of the BROs deployed in the village to monitor the mangroves and help reduce mortality rate.

To date, there are more than 23 hectares of new mangrove plantations being rehabilitated in various coastal municipalities of Ilocos Norte. Davila village has the biggest area covering around 200 hectares.

Public and private organizations traveled to Davila taking turns to plant more mangrove propagules to help inspire others to do their part.

According to environment experts, mangroves act as a life support system to about 75 percent of fish species, crustaceans, and wildlife. If left undisturbed, mangroves can live up to 100 years. And the more they mature, the more they help the marine ecological system. (PNA)