CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) -- Elementary school students from Batang 2nd Integrated School gave their share of the spadework in preserving and protecting the wetlands of Sasmuan, Pampanga.

They planted a total of 300 mangrove saplings together with personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR),  the provincial government, and the municipal government.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the activity aims to not only enhance the biodiversity of coastal communities, but also foster a sense of environmental responsibility and stewardship among citizens, especially the youth.

Mangroves are important in conserving wetlands and coastal ecosystems because of their role in coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and providing habitat for diverse marine life.

"By planting mangroves, we are investing in the resilience of our coastal areas and contributing to the fight against climate change. This activity is our commitment to preserving our wetlands and securing a sustainable future for our communities," he pressed.

Pablo also assured that DENR is committed to monitor and nurture the newly planted mangroves to ensure their survival and growth.

Other ongoing efforts of the agency include educational programs to inform communities about the benefits of mangroves and the importance of preserving wetlands for the well-being of both the environment and society.

Sasmuan is primarily a coastal town whose main source of livelihood is fishpond operation and aquaculture.

The Bangkung Malapad Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area, also known as the  Sasmuan Pampanga Coastal Wetlands, was declared the eighth Ramsar site in the Philippines.

It covers six coastal barangays with about 3,667.31 hectares of coastal waters. (CLJD/MJSC-PIA 3)