In celebration of the 18th National Climate Change Consciousness Week, the Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (AMIA) Program of the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office 8 (DA-RFO VIII) conducted a mangrove and marang tree-planting activities across Eastern Visayas, addressing climate vulnerabilities in both coastal and upland communities.
On November 20, 2025, participants planted mangrove (bakawan) seedlings in the coastal waters of Brgy. Uban, Babatngon, Leyte, an area regularly affected by storm surges, coastal erosion, and flooding. The activity was facilitated by Mr. Arnel Nombre, who led the team in ensuring proper planting techniques and seedling care. The initiative aimed to restore coastal ecosystems, enhance marine biodiversity, and strengthen natural barriers to protect local communities.
The following day, November 21, 2025, the team planted marang seedlings (𝘈𝘳𝘵𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘱𝘶𝘴 𝘰𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘮𝘶𝘴) in the mountainous AMIA Village of Brgy. Roxas, Basey, Samar, which faces landslides, soil erosion, and drought risks. The upland planting supports agroforestry development, improves soil stability, and provides long-term livelihood opportunities for farmers.
Both activities were participated in by farmers from AMIA Villages, representatives from DA banner programs, and Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) personnel. Short climate awareness sessions were conducted during the planting to educate participants on seedling care, sustainable farming practices, and community stewardship to ensure the long-term survival of the planted trees.
According to the messages delivered by stakeholders, “By planting mangroves along our coasts and marang in our uplands, we are addressing the specific hazards faced by our communities while building resilience from ridge to reef.”
These initiatives are aligned with the national theme “Bagong Pilipinas, Bagong Bansang Matatag: “Makabagong Kilusan Para sa Klima at Kinabukasan” and demonstrate the Department of Agriculture’s commitment to climate-resilient agriculture, ecosystem restoration, and community-based climate adaptation in Eastern Visayas.
