Iloilo city: A "Coastal Greenbelt Zones" initiative is being proposed in Iloilo City to safeguard its coastal and mangrove forests. "The Coastal Greenbelt Zones refer to a strip of natural or planted coastal vegetation whenever applicable from the sea towards land, primarily of mangrove and beach forest species, which are designed to prevent coastal erosion and mitigate the adverse impact of natural coastal hazards in human lives and property," Councilor Romel Duron explained during the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council).

According to Philippines News Agency, Duron further elaborated in a follow-up interview that coastal barangays such as Balabago and Bito-on in Jaro, Boulevard in Molo, and Hinactacan in La Paz district will be identified for development and protection of existing mangrove forests. The initiative includes mandatory mangrove planting in these areas.

Duron emphasized the importance of protecting coastal barangays as mandated by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, particularly during calamities like flooding, typhoons, and storm surges, where mangroves help cushion the impact. The proposed ordinance will also impose penalties for illegal cutting of mangroves, addressing concerns over areas being converted into fishponds.

The initiative is expected to benefit the local fisherfolk by increasing fish populations in mangrove areas. Duron mentioned coordination efforts with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, City Environment and Natural Resources, and other relevant agencies to develop the ordinance. Host barangays will also be invited to offer suggestions and participate in ocular inspections.

Duron highlighted the necessity of protecting mangrove areas, particularly as Iloilo City is an urban center. He noted that the city's established mangrove areas recently earned an international award. The proposed ordinance has been approved on first reading.