By Gabriel Louis B. Arancillo
On November 23, 2024, Central Philippine University Republic (CPUR) led “Project Luntian: A Green Shield for Our Coastlines” in partnership with MENRO Leganes and local student organizations.
On Saturday, November 23, 2024, the Central Philippine University Republic (CPUR) Committee on Social, Environment, Health, and Safety led an impactful environmental initiative in partnership with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Leganes, Iloilo, local government units (LGUs) from Central Philippine University’s different colleges and departments, and various student organizations and fraternities. The event, titled “Project Luntian: A Green Shield for Our Coastlines,” aimed to promote environmental sustainability through mangrove planting and a coastal cleanup activity at the Leganes Integrated Katunggan EcoPark.
The event was kicked off by participants from CPU’s various colleges’ LGUs, organizations, and fraternities, who gathered at the Leganes Integrated Katunggan EcoPark. The program featured an inspiring speech from Mr. Wilson A. Batislaon, the MENRO head of Leganes, who shared his dedication to preserving the environment. He highlighted the importance of mangroves in mitigating climate change and the vital role they play in protecting coastal ecosystems.
“Ang inyo project very timely gid ni sya” Batislaon remarked “Ang Project Luntian Program ninyo is basically very important, because we are now experiencing climate change and global warming, ang coastal cleanup is one of the basic protection sang mangrove, because there is a lot of garbage that affects the growth and performance of the mangrove, and we know pretty well that mangroves are one of the potent trees that can absorb a lot of carbon dioxide, compared to terrestrial forests, we could sequester actually 5 to 10 percent, which is higher than other trees–if we destroy the mangrove those captured carbon dioxide beneath the soil will dissipate in the atmosphere, that’s why it’s not good to cut mangroves.”
“With your Project Luntian Initiative we are very grateful in the Municipality of Leganes, particularly in Leganes Integrated Katunggan EcoPark, because it helps us spread the news that what you have done is something that everybody should be thankful of,” said Wilson Batislaon.
The Leganes Integrated Katunggan EcoPark is a mangrove rehabilitation site that has been transformed from an abandoned fishpond into a thriving mangrove forest.
This transformation began in 2009, with the initiative spearheaded by MENRO Leganes in collaboration with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). The area, once a source of environmental degradation, is now home to a variety of birds, fish species, and marine wildlife. It has become a model for climate-change adaptation and a valuable educational resource for the community. As Batislaon shared, “We started with 9.5 hectares, and now, thanks to the support of volunteers and partners, we have a thriving 15-hectare mangrove forest that not only helps restore the environment but also attracts wildlife and visitors.”
Project Luntian, like the broader mangrove rehabilitation efforts in Iloilo, has a long-term impact. From 2009 to 2015, over 86,000 mangrove seedlings were planted in the area of Leganes. The initiative has transformed not only the landscape but also the community’s approach to environmental preservation. The rehabilitation efforts have led to a noticeable increase in fish populations, benefitting local fishermen who now see improved catches. This success story is due to the collective efforts of government agencies, NGOs, schools, and the local community working together toward a common goal.
Batislaon, who was honored with the Walt Disney Conservation Hero Award for his work, has been instrumental in the success of the mangrove rehabilitation project. His leadership has helped turn the park into a thriving example of sustainable coastal management, attracting visitors and volunteers from all over the country.
Project Luntian’s efforts are part of a larger trend in Iloilo, where communities are coming together to preserve their natural resources for the benefit of both people and the environment. The work done in Leganes provides a model for other coastal towns in the region, showing that with dedication, collaboration, and effective management, it is possible to turn environmental challenges into opportunities for restoration and growth.
Through this initiative, CPUR and the CPU Community are not just planting mangroves—they are planting the seeds of a greener, more sustainable future for the people of Leganes, Iloilo, and beyond. The impact of Project Luntian extends far beyond the cleanup and planting activities; it is a movement toward environmental responsibility, community action, and the protection of our coastlines for the greener generations to come.