As part of a significant effort to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability, Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (AFI), Aboitiz Construction, Inc. (ACI), and the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) have formalized their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for a Mangrove Forest Enhancement Project. Launched in Brgy. Lumaniag, Lian, Batangas, this initiative seeks to address the decline of mangrove forests in the Philippines while empowering local communities through reforestation and conservation efforts. 

Mangrove forests play a vital role in coastal ecosystems, offering numerous benefits such as livelihood support, food resources, soil stabilization, water filtration, habitat for marine life, carbon storage, and coastal protection. However, despite their critical importance, mangrove coverage in the Philippines remains limited, with only 303,373 hectares—0.04% of the total forest area—covered by mangroves, as reported by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in its 2022 Philippine Forestry Statistics. 

[In photo: RAFI, ACI and AFI representatives all smiles after the ceremonial signing. From left to right: Anthony Dignadice (RAFI Partnerships Director), Arriane Dennili Magtarayo (RAFI OTT – Partnerships Sr. Officer), Welfredo Dalumpines (AFI – Impact Lead for Climate Action), Estee Marie Plunket (RAFI Chief CAPP Officer), Karmine Andrea Ching (ACI – Sr. AVP for Business Transformation), and Rafael Antonio (ACI – Manager for Reputation Management)

The project aims to plant 1,455 mangrove trees through enrichment planting by 2026, covering 0.15 hectares of land in Lumaniag. In addition to environmental restoration, the initiative will empower local communities by providing training to members of the Samahan ng Mandaragat sa Sulok (SAMLOK) people’s organization (PO) with essential skills, including mangrove plantation design, nursery establishment, seedling production, plantation establishment, and ongoing maintenance. This project is made possible through the partnership with the local government unit of Lian, in collaboration with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), the Barangay LGU of Lumaniag, the Provincial Government of Batangas, the PGENRO (Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office), and other local stakeholders. 

“We are proud to continue our commitment to environmental sustainability through this partnership with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. and Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.. The Mangrove Forest Enhancement Project not only contributes to the preservation of vital ecosystems but also supports the livelihood of local communities. By engaging our team members and local organizations, we aim to create a lasting impact that will benefit both the environment and the people of Lian for years to come,” said Karmine Andrea Ching, Sr. AVP for Business Transformation of Aboitiz Construction. 

[In photo: Arriane Dennili Magtarayo (RAFI OTT – Partnerships Sr. Officer), Welfredo Dalumpines (AFI – Impact Lead for Climate Action), Estee Marie Plunket (RAFI Chief CAPP Officer), Karmine Andrea Ching (ACI – Sr. AVP for Business Transformation), and Rafael Antonio (ACI – Manager for Reputation Management) signs MOA for the Mangrove Forest Enhancement Project in Barangay Lumaniag, Lian, Batangas.] 

Beyond its environmental impact, the project is designed to benefit the local community, particularly members of the people’s organization in the municipality. The initiative will engage and support 20-25 residents, providing them with opportunities to participate in activities such as planting and maintaining the mangrove trees. 

The Mangrove Forest Enhancement Project aligns with national efforts to combat environmental degradation and contribute to the Philippines’ reforestation targets. This partnership serves as a model for sustainable development, where business, government, and civil society work together to tackle pressing environmental issues while enhancing local livelihoods. 

“We are excited to work alongside Aboitiz Construction and local stakeholders to restore and protect the mangrove ecosystem in Lian, Batangas. This initiative is not just about growing trees, but about empowering communities to become active stewards of the environment and improving their well-being,” said RAFI Chief CAP Officer, Estee Marie Plunket.  

Through this project, we hope to highlight that by working together, we can protect vital ecosystems while improving the livelihoods of those who depend on them for their well-being. 

[In photo: Representatives from RAFI, ACI, and AFI share a smile as they celebrate the new partnership.]