State of the mangroves in Region 8 [Ea stern Visayas, Philippines]

Although mangroves are protected by law, there is still a decline in mangrove cover due to poaching, charcoal making, encroachment by informal settlers, land conversion, construction of dikes, siltation, solid waste pollution, and natural stressors such as typhoons, pests, and diseases. Mangrove rehabilitation and/or reforestation has made much headway and impact in the region through the implementation of the MBFDP, NGP and other initiatives by LGUs, NGOs and CSOs. The combined accomplishments of various efforts have resulted in 20,553 ha of mangrove areas as of 2019. This is on top of rehabilitation and/ or reforestation efforts undertaken earlier than 2011. To ensure the success of mangrove conservation initiatives, there must be strict implementation of science based development strategies such as species-site matching to ensure high survival of planted mangrove seedlings. Planting Avicennia and Sonneratia species in sites where barnacle infestation occurs, particularly in the seafront and areas exposed to tidal waters, should be avoided. The use of 100% potted planting materials in the seaward orientation of the planting sites for high survival and good growth performance of the planted species should also be implemented. To further ensure the success of mangrove rehabilitation efforts, there should be convergence of LGUs and other government agencies such as the DOST, DA-BFAR, NGOs, and other organizations that are technically capable in mangrove management and protection. Continuous feedback and monitoring and evaluation should be undertaken. To sustain management impacts, stakeholder collaboration and consultation should be strengthened from planning to implementation, as well as in documentation and monitoring and evaluation. Solid waste management should be strictly implemented, and biodiversity-friendly livelihoods should be encouraged. To ensure active participation and involvement from coastal stakeholders, there should be continuous education on mangrove plantation establishment and management. Lessons learned and best practices from successful mangrove initiatives should also be disseminated and replicated where appropriate.