The thriving mangrove forests of Palawan not only enhance biodiversity but also serve as shields against storms and a natural protector for coastal communities and marine resources.
Urbanization and human activities, however, have led to the depletion of these important habitats in Puerto Princesa.
To address this environmental challenge, residents of Puerto Princesa take part in an annual mangrove planting activity every February 14. Known as the Love Affair with Nature (LAWN), this LGU-spearheaded initiative aims to rehabilitate denuded mangrove areas and promote ecological awareness in the community.
City Ordinance No. 287, which declares Valentine’s Day as LAWN Day in Puerto Princesa, also hosts mass weddings where newly wedded couples plant seedlings as part of their wedding vows.
The event also draws active participation from different government agencies, uniformed personnel from the police and military, academic institutions, civil society organizations, youth groups, barangays, and the business sector. Between 8,000 to 10,000 mangrove propagules and seedlings are planted each year as part of the initiative.
“It has a romantic theme for the residents with a twist of environmental activity. The yearly celebration features a mangrove planting festivity in the coastal zones to restore degraded mangrove areas. The event heightens awareness on the ecological role of mangroves and other coastal ecosystems in the vital web of life,” the City Government said.
To date, nearly 1 million mangroves have been planted across different shorelines of Puerto Princesa with a survival rate of 87%.
But despite conservation efforts, informal settlements continue to pose a threat to the mangroves of Puerto Princesa. According to the LGU, there are at least 9,500 informal settler families in the city, with more than 7,000 residing along coastlines, coastal easements, and mangrove areas.
Mayor Lucilo Bayron has emphasized that relocating informal settlers, especially those living along the city’s coastlines, is a priority in their campaign to reduce pollution and protect coastal ecosystems.
As part of its efforts, the national government, through the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program (4PH), has initiated the construction of 47 five-story buildings. These will provide 5,640 housing units, offering safer and more sustainable living conditions for informal settlers while preserving the city’s mangroves.
