As rising seas and disappearing shorelines continue to threaten coastal communities across the Philippines, Foundever® in the Philippines is taking action, one mangrove at a time.
Sixty-three associates from the company rolled up their sleeves for a mangrove tree planting and coastal clean-up at the Lagadlarin Mangrove Forest, a critical ecosystem on the southern coast of Batangas.
“By helping restore this mangrove forest, we are not just planting trees; we are helping safeguard the ecological future of the community,” said Cholo Sunico, Director for People Experience and Culture at Foundever in the Philippines. “Mangroves protect coastlines from storm surges, serve as nurseries for fish, and support the livelihoods of the fisherfolk who call this place home. It’s a shared responsibility we proudly embrace.”
The initiative was held in observance of the National Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem (July 26) and resulted in the planting of 100 new mangrove seedlings along with a significant clean-up of the forest’s coastal areas. This was done in close partnership with the Samahan ng Maliliit na Mangingisda sa Pangangalaga ng Kalikasan sa Barangay Lagadlarin (SMMPKBL) Inc., a local organization of fisherfolks committed to protecting their marine and coastal envronment.
The Lagadlarin Mangrove Forest is one of the last remaining and most well-preserved mangrove forests in Southern Luzon. It plays a vital role in protecting Batangas’ coastal zones from erosion and flooding, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting marine biodiversity, especially fish and shellfish vital to the local economy. Its roots literally anchor the community against climate risks; restoring it is both a scientific and moral imperative.
“Partnerships like this show how business and community can come together to create long-term, meaningful impact,” said John Henry Valencia, Director for Human Resources Business Partners at Foundever in the Philippines. “Our associates are proud to serve not just our clients, but also the land and people in the communities where we operate.”
This environmental initiative is part of the broader commitment to corporate citizenship by Foundever in the Philippines, aimed at creating resilient ecosystems, empowered communities, and a future where corporate values and economic progress align with environmental responsibility.
