Photo credit to MENRO Ipil
MARCELO SPINOLA SCHOOL LEADS MANGROVE PLANTING IN IPIL
IPIL, ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY — More than 100 participants gathered in Makilas, Ipil on September 26, 2026, for a coastal conservation activity led by Marcelo Spinola School, resulting in the planting of 250 mangrove propagules.
The initiative was coordinated by Asterio Sumalinog, Ecology Coordinator of the Diocese of Ipil, and brought together participants who took part in the effort to help protect and restore the municipality’s coastal environment.
The group planted 250 Rhizophora propagules in the designated area, contributing to efforts to expand mangrove cover and strengthen the natural protection of the coastline.
Before the planting began, personnel from the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) conducted an orientation covering proper mangrove planting techniques and mangrove zonation. The participants were briefed on the importance of placing the propagules in areas with suitable conditions to support their growth and survival.
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The activity also received transportation assistance from the Local Government Unit of Ipil, which provided a bus for the participants through the support of Mayor Ramses Troy D. Olegario.
Mangroves are important components of coastal ecosystems, providing habitat for marine organisms, helping stabilize shorelines and serving as natural buffers against waves and other coastal hazards.
Through the activity, Marcelo Spinola School and its partners promoted hands-on environmental stewardship while encouraging participants to take an active role in caring for Ipil’s coastal resources.
The planting of 250 propagules represents a small but concrete contribution toward the continuing protection and rehabilitation of mangrove areas in Makilas and the wider Ipil coastline.
