ORANI, BATAAN — As coastal communities continue to strengthen their natural defenses against climate and environmental challenges, a collective effort took root this Earth Day 2026 in Bataan through a specialized two-day mangrove rehabilitation training supported by AboitizPower private limited partnerships GNPower Mariveles Energy Center (GMEC) and GNPower Dinginin (GNPD) together with the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PG-ENRO), the Department of Environment and National Resources (DENR) Bataan, and local communities.
The training equipped members of the Tubo-Tubo Fisherfolks Association (TFA) and the Samahan ng Magsasaka ng San Rafael – Anak Dagat (SAMASAD) with the technical expertise needed to lead future restoration efforts in their own mangrove sites. TFA manages GMEC’s adopted 32-hectare mangrove protection area in Orani, while SAMASAD oversees GNPD’s 5-hectare mangrove site in Samal.
“A big step forward for Bataan. I’m grateful to AboitizPower, GMEC and GNPD,” PG-ENRO OIC Raphael De Leon said. “With so many mangrove initiatives underway, it’s vital that our people’s organizations are all on the same page. From preparing seeds and managing nurseries to proper planting and long-term care, having the right knowledge is key to lasting success in Bataan’s conservation efforts.”
“Real stewardship isn’t just about how many mangroves we plant, it’s about doing it right, guided by science every step of the way,” said GMEC-GNPD Reputation and Stakeholder Management (RSM) Manager Joseph Paolo Mendoza. “At AboitizPower, we’re proud to stand with the Province of Bataan and our people’s organizations, equipping communities with the knowledge they need today, so together we can protect our shores for generations to come.”
The event kicked off on April 22, 2026 at the Tubo-Tubo Function Hall in Barangay Kabalutan, Orani, Bataan. Moving beyond basic planting, De Leon led a “Mangrove 101” session, explaining the specific ecological needs of Bataan’s coastlines.
Participants focused on the “how-to” of restoration science, including the technical process of growing Pagatpat (Sonnertia alba) from seeds, caring for young seedlings to help them become strong enough for the wild, and understanding zonation and maintenance protocols to ensure high survival rates.
On April 23, 2026, the classroom moved to GMEC’s Mangrove Adoption and Protection site in Orani for hands-on field exercises. Participants practiced identifying mangrove species in the wild and assessed the health of existing trees.
A key focus of the field day was zonation, or learning to identify the specific intertidal zones where different species thrive, ensuring that future community-led efforts are guided by science rather than guesswork.
“Thanks to the Mangrove Nursery Management training, we can now confidently show visitors how to properly prepare, plant, and grow seedlings,” said TFA secretary Joann Laguerta. “We’ve learned how to choose the right species for our area and truly understand the impact of our work. Our thanks to AboitizPower GMEC and GNPD, and PG-ENRO Bataan for the guidance and opportunity for us to be better guardians of our mangroves.”
Through initiatives that protect natural resources and empower communities, AboitizPower continues to be a good neighbor and responsible steward of the environment. By working hand in hand with local partners, the company remains dedicated to creating lasting positive impact and advancing sustainable progress in the communities it serves. ###
PHOTO CAPTION: Empowering Stewards. Participants of the Mangrove Rehabilitation Training held on April 22–23, 2026, in Orani, Bataan. The initiative focused on equipping local communities with the technical skills needed for long-term environmental sustainability.
