GNPower Mariveles Energy Center Ltd. Co. (GMEC) conducted an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Environmental Forum on Understanding Climate Change and Mangroves this May at Pulo Integrated School in Sitio Pulo, Barangay Kabalutan, Orani.

This is one of the company’s initiatives under its 6.8M Mangrove Adoption and Protection Project, a five-year program aiming to develop a five-hectare mangrove expanse in the said area, which is the first of its kind under Bataan’s environmental program Project Transform. According to the 2024 State of the Coasts of Bataan, the province’s mangrove area decreased from 3.95 sq. kms. to 1.56 sq. kms. between 2012 and 2016. Thus, GMEC launched the said project, covering five hectares and planting 12,500 mangrove propagules and seedlings in 2023 alone.

The forum gathered over 150 participants, including students, teachers, school officials, GMEC personnel, and representatives from the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO). The event featured presentations on climate change, mangrove ecology and conservation, the threats to mangrove survival, and the benefits these vital ecosystems provide. “I hope with this learning event, the students are now more conscious about our environment, especially the changing climate and our mangrove ecosystems. I hope we will all take action for its protection and betterment,” PGENRO OIC Raphael De Leon said. GMEC AVP for Community Relations Arcel Madrid delivered an inspirational message, emphasizing the importance of environmental protection and youth engagement in climate change mitigation efforts. “There is only one planet we live on, and it is our duty to take care of it. For our youth, let us understand the importance of mangroves, climate change mitigation, and the things we can still do to continue protecting our environment,” said Madrid. “Let us not forget that the small things we can do for ourselves, in our homes, in our schools, and in our communities to care for our environment, are done for our future and the future generations.”

Following the forum, a poster-making contest and quiz bee were held with the theme “Green Generation: Kabataang Tagapangalaga ng Bakawan” (Green Generation: Youth Protectors of Mangroves). Winners received cash prizes and food packs from GMEC. Aside from the environmental forum, GMEC also provided donations to Pulo Integrated School, including electric fans, summer survival kits for students, and school supplies.

GMEC’s Mangrove Adoption and Protection Project recognizes the crucial role mangrove forests play in combating climate change through carbon sequestration. The company believes that mangrove forests play a vital role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. Mangroves absorb carbon three to five times more than mountain forests. The project extends beyond environmental objectives, aiming to provide alternative livelihood opportunities for the community. The restored mangroves will create a sustainable fishing area and promote healthy breeding grounds for marine life.

Additionally, the area has the potential to become a future tourist destination. This five-year project, with the possibility of extension, is part of GMEC’s flagship environmental program called P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S., under the “P” or Protect marine life arm. P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S. stands for Protect marine life, Reforest Land, Optimize wealth from waste, Generate livelihood skills and income, Rehabilitate social infrastructure, Elevate educational opportunities, Safeguard quality health access, and Strengthen disaster resiliency.

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