CENRO Mambusao marks World Wetlands Day 2026

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The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Mambusao commemorated World Wetlands Day 2026 with a mangrove tree-planting and communication, education and public awareness (CEPA) activity in Barangay Balaring, Ivisan, Capiz.

The event carried the theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” and was held in partnership with the municipal local government unit of Ivisan, the barangay local government unit of Balaring, a community-based forest management people’s organization (CBFM-PO) — the New Balaring Mangrove Association Inc. (NewBaMA) — and volunteer students from Mambusao East National High School.

A total of 54 participants — 31 females and 23 males — planted 100 propagule seedlings to promote environmental awareness, wetland conservation and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Forester Jeanylyn S. Anacan, chief of the Conservation and Development Section, delivered a lecture on World Wetlands Day 2026 and its theme, emphasizing the connection between wetlands and people.

Anacan discussed the role of wetlands in culture, education, recreation, Indigenous Peoples’ livelihoods, water resources and biodiversity conservation.

She told participants wetlands are vital because they serve as natural buffers against floods and storm surges, especially in coastal areas.

Anacan also highlighted traditional practices used by ancestors to conserve wetlands, including mindful fishing practices, observed harvesting seasons and the protection of mangroves.

She said these practices reflect respect for nature as an integral part of culture and daily life while supporting long-term sustainability and local knowledge.

Forester Jonne L. Adaniel, officer in charge and CENR officer of Mambusao, emphasized the importance of wetlands in biodiversity conservation and environmental protection.

“The various mangrove plantation initiatives of CBFM-PO are potential models for sustainable livelihood and ecotourism development. We are very grateful for their efforts,” he said.

The activity strengthened collaboration among DENR Region VI, local governments, people’s organizations and the youth sector in promoting wetland protection and environmental stewardship.

World Wetlands Day is observed annually on Feb. 2 to mark the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an international agreement focused on conserving and ensuring the wise use of wetlands.

Wetlands such as mangrove forests help protect shorelines, support fisheries and provide habitat for wildlife, while also storing carbon and improving water quality.

Organizers encouraged the public to help protect wetlands by respecting local knowledge, volunteering for nature programs and engaging young people in environmental education. (DENR-6)