ILIGAN CITY (PIA)--In an inspiring act of environmental stewardship, the Fraternal Order of Eagles-Philippine Eagles, Inc., Northern Mindanao Region 8 (NMR8), planted 500 mangrove seedlings or propagules on Bayug Island, here.

NMR8 Regional Governor Simpson Umbac said the project is a collaborative effort of the Philippine Eagles in every region and their respective clubs, adhering to their core principle of "Service through Strong Brotherhood."

"Naningkamot gyud ta nga marestore og balik ang atong nature labi na kining mga trees kay mao ni ga-protect sa atong nature para maprevent ning mga flooding," he said.

(We are exerting every effort to restore and protect our nature, especially these trees, as they serve to protect our environment and prevent flooding)

Meanwhile, Talacogon Waterfalls Club President Bonifacio Domaum Jr. shared that they shifted to planting trees in coastal areas after successfully planting trees on land.

"Since tapos na kami sa pag-tree planting sa may bukirin, so, ito, as agreed by the group, sa club at saka sa region, so, dito kami muna sa may dagat, sa mangrove area," he said.

(Since we have already finished tree planting in the upland area, as agreed by the group, the club, and the region, we are now focusing on the coastal area, specifically the mangrove area)

Moreover, Dodiongan Falls Eagles Club President Jay Oñez emphasized their commitment to the environment, stating that one of their main projects involves building up and preserving nature. He expressed their dedication to making a difference through their initiatives.

To recall, Bayug Island was severely affected by Typhoon Sendong in December 2011. Hence, residents and other partners initiate continuous mangrove planting efforts to protect their surroundings, ensuring resilience against future storms and minimizing the impact of such natural disasters. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)