Balanga:Fish harvests have doubled while nearby communities are now flood-free and protected from strong waves and storm surges following the restoration of mangrove forests along Balanga City's coastlines.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) stated that communities and fishing families in this coastal Bataan town faced regular threats from floodwaters, particularly during high tides.
Residents reported a decline in fish catch as mangroves were previously cut down, leading to forest degradation and the loss of coastal vegetation. Jaime Buenaventura, chair of the City Fishery and Aquatic Resources Management Council, noted that the removal of mangroves exacerbated flooding issues during high tides, especially when accompanied by strong winds.
Now, the restored mangroves serve as natural buffers, reducing wave impact and slowing floodwaters before they reach homes and fishponds. The mangrove roots provide breeding and nursery grounds for fish and other marine species, replenishing local fishing grounds. Fisher Benjie Manuel observed that the mangroves protected the area from strong waves during recent typhoons and reported a significant increase in income due to improved yields.
The restored area has also attracted tourists, creating opportunities for tourism and other local enterprises. The DENR has supported these efforts through technical assistance, capacity-building activities, and regular monitoring. River rangers are deployed to maintain waterways and protect coastal resources, while trash traps and waste interception systems prevent garbage from reaching mangrove forests.
Local fishers and volunteers have contributed by planting and nurturing mangroves along the coastline. Manuel expressed the community's gratitude for the protection provided by the mangroves to both their livelihoods and homes.
During a recent inspection of the Balanga Wetland and Nature Park, Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna emphasized the importance of protecting natural ecosystems as part of the country's climate change response. He stated that the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive for the DENR and other government agencies to revise the flood control master plan to address more intense storms and heavier rainfall. Cuna highlighted Balanga's experience as an example of how mangrove restoration can support local fisheries and provide natural defenses against climate-related hazards.
