The Palawan Katutubo Mission (PKM), the Indigenous Peoples apostolate arm of the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa (AVPP), will launch its mangrove conservation initiative in Aborlan town, Palawan on September 11–12 coinciding with the observance of the ‘Season of Creation’ and ‘Indigenous Peoples Month’, both observed from September to October.
“Titled ‘Pangangalaga ng Mangrove Forest para sa Angkop na Namumunong Aborlan’ (PAMANA), the initiative seeks to restore and protect mangrove ecosystems while supporting sustainable livelihoods and inclusive governance,” AVPP said in a statement through its social media page AVPP Ugnayan.
The project targets to restore five (5) hectares of mangrove areas in Barangays Apo-Aporawan and Magsaysay, and protect 18 hectares along the Tagpangi River in Barangay Apurawan. These sites are managed in partnership with local fisherfolk organizations, including the Apo-Aporawan Fisherfolks Association (AFA), KAPTIFOA, and SAMFA.
Fr. Armando Limsa, PKM Director explained that previously they prioritized supporting upland forest and ancestral domain, but this time they are now focusing on coastal areas.
“In previous years, our focus was on upland forests to support ancestral domain stewardship. But from 2023 to 2027, we’ve turned to coastal areas, working with fisherfolk in selected municipalities. What was once a landscape program is now a seascape mission—especially in the mangrove zones of Aborlan’s east and west coasts,” Fr. Limsa explained.
The priest also explained that each effort includes training, formation, and livelihood.
“We hope these leave small legacies for both IPs and migrant Palawenos during this Jubilee Year, as the Church journeys with them in ‘Lakbay-Laya: Pilgrims of Hope in Ancestral Domain,’” he further said.
Bishop Socrates Mesiona, MSP, Apostolic Vicar of Puerto Princesa, emphasized the ecological and communal value of the initiative.
“We’re working on this project to save our mangroves because we care about our planet. Mangroves are super important for keeping storms and floods at bay. They also provide safe havens for all kinds of fish and birds. Plus, they help clean up polluted seawater. So, this project is definitely a win for our community,” the bishop said.
The project responds to threats such as land-use conflicts, mining, illegal logging, and climate change impacts. It includes financial, institutional, and structural sustainability plans to ensure long-term community stewardship, including mangrove nurseries, aquasilviculture, and the deputization of Bantay Bakawan volunteers.
PKM expressed gratitude to its funding partners, local communities, government agencies, and the AVPP for their support.
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