PSA-Aklan plants mangroves for 13th anniversary

KALIBO, Aklan — Employees of the Philippine Statistics Authority-Aklan Provincial Statistical Office marked the agency’s 13th founding anniversary with a mangrove planting activity aimed at supporting coastal protection and strengthening environmental awareness among government workers.

PSA-Aklan personnel temporarily set aside their regular duties on Sept. 8, 2026, to plant mangroves at the Bakhawan Eco-Park in New Buswang, Kalibo.

The activity formed part of PSA-Aklan’s celebration of its 13th founding anniversary, which was commemorated on Sept. 12, 2026.

Around 100 mangrove propagules were planted by employees as a symbol of the agency’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.

Dr. Peter S. Mangilog, officer-in-charge chief statistical specialist of PSA-Aklan, said the activity showed that the agency’s responsibilities extend beyond producing official statistics and delivering civil registration and National ID services.

Mangilog said PSA-Aklan also seeks to fulfill its social responsibility by helping protect the environment.

“We need to protect our environment, and this is one way of instilling in the minds of our employees the importance of environmental conservation,” Dr. Mangilog said.

Before the planting activity, participants received an orientation from Bakhawan Eco-Park Manager Willie B. Ramos on proper mangrove planting techniques.

Employees were also introduced to the different mangrove species found in the area.

The orientation was intended to equip participants with practical knowledge while deepening their appreciation of the role mangroves play in protecting coastal communities and ecosystems.

Mangroves serve as natural coastal buffers that can help reduce shoreline erosion and lessen the impact of waves and storm surges, while also providing habitat for fish and other marine species.

These ecosystems are especially important in coastal provinces such as Aklan, where communities and livelihoods can be exposed to typhoons, flooding, and other climate-related hazards.

Mangilog also expressed his commitment to making the mangrove planting activity a regular undertaking of PSA-Aklan as part of the office’s continuing environmental advocacy and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

After the planting activity, the team toured the eco-park to further appreciate the natural environment and strengthen employees’ awareness of environmental conservation.