Siargao Island's fierce wetlands protector

The small teardrop island of Siargao is more than just a surfing paradise. It is also home to one of the Philippines' largest contiguous mangrove forests that sprawl over 4,800 hectares in the municipality of Del Carmen. But before commencing wetland conservation efforts, rampant illegal cutting of mangroves was recorded in the area, explained Gina Barquilla, the Del Carmen Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO).

“Impoverished residents found ways to make a living out of the rich bakhawan forests of Del Carmen”, she said.

By cutting down these trees, it destroys fish habitats that contribute to diminishing catches and the community loses crucial barriers to strong storms that cause destruction in the residential areas. Wetland conservation became Gina's personal mission that she would always be seen at the frontlines to protect the forests—along the coast to check on the bakhawan, in a boat to face illegal mangrove cutters at sea, or in a court facing mangrove destroyers. "I am a government employee, and the people pay taxes for my salary. I know that I should repay them by doing my job as a MENRO well. For me, taking care of the forests is not just part of my work, it's a way to preserve our community's natural resources," she remarked.

With the help of Gina, the local government of Del Carmen found ways to involve the community in rebuilding the mangrove forests: raising awareness through information dissemination, providing alternative sources of income, and equipping residents with the knowledge on how healthy mangrove forests benefit the community.

Their efforts paid off eventually—some of the mangrove poachers joined people's organizations like Kaanib ng mga Mangingisda at Magsasaka ng Numancia Aqua-Agrikultura (KAMAMANA) whose goal is to stop mangrove cutting and illegal fishing so that the forests can grow. It also paved the way for partnerships with other eco-conscious groups to pour in and help sustain their programs. One of these partnerships is with OMF, which engaged KAMAMANA and the local government in planting and growing 125,000 mangrove propagules in three sites covering 50 hectares. KAMAMANA members earn by planting these trees. By monitoring these trees from planting the propagules to taking care of their growth, the people become the guardians of a thriving ecosystem that benefits the entire community.