The Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg), successfully conducted a one-day Training on Mangrove Rehabilitation and Management to strengthen community participation in the sustainable conservation of mangrove ecosystems. Held at Rojo’s Resort, Barangay Gumaus, Paracale, Camarines Norte, the activity brought together around 40 fisherfolk beneficiaries and partner agencies. The training aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge and practical skills on mangrove planting, protection, and long-term management to ensure the survival of rehabilitated areas.
Ms. Cathleen Kaye Abanto, Environmental Management Specialist I from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), served as the resource speaker. She presented discussions on the ecological and economic importance of mangroves, rehabilitation strategies – including seeding handling, site preparation and outplanting techniques and community-based management approaches. She emphasized that “Mangroves are our first line of defense against climate-related hazards, while also serving as a natural nursery ground for fish and other marine species vital to our fisherfolk’s livelihood.”. Supervising Agriculturist Ms. Melinda L. Jerez, Division Chief of the Fisheries Development Division, led the OPAg technical team in facilitating the activity, with the guidance and support of Provincial Agriculturist Engr. Almirante A. Abad. The event was also coordinated with the Barangay Council of Gumaus and the Municipal Agriculturist’s Office of Paracale to ensure strong local partnership.
The training featured an interactive open forum and sharing of experiences from the association members. It concluded with a commitment-setting session, where participants pledged to apply the knowledge gained in restoring and safeguarding mangrove areas in their communities. This initiative forms part of the continuing Mangrove Rehabilitation Project of the province, which seeks to restore degraded coastal zones, enhance fishery resources, and build climate-resilient communities.