A group of 29 passionate volunteers from Cipriano Sta. Teresa Elementary School along with 30 hardworking members of the Samahan ng mga Maliliit na Mangingisda ng Brgy. Victory (SMMV), and 10 passionate members of Hands On Manila (HOM) and the Asian Social Institute (ASI) joined forces to make a significant impact on the shores of Santiago Island in Bolinao, Pangasinan.

 

Their collective efforts resulted in the successful planting of 779 propagules and the collection of 14 sacks of trash through an ocean cleanup activity. This inspiring collaboration was made possible through a partnership with SMMV, which highlighted the power of community-driven conservation efforts.

 

Testimonial from Maureen Espinosa, HOM Volunteer:

“I thought I knew things about the environment already, but not yet. Issues on the environment have been close to my heart, especially since I learned how to surf years ago. Plus, I grew up with my family going to the beach almost every summer.

 

Anyway, as an adult, I was exposed to individuals who told me stories about ecotourism and such. This activity broadened my awareness about the lack of implementation solutions. Rather, the process of finding solutions really takes time.”

 

This project aims to expand environmental education on the sensitive shorelines and mangrove habitats on Santiago Island. This will improve the ecosystem’s health and will generate alternative livelihoods.

This project is funded in part by Ocean Conservancy’s Small Grants Program.