CENRO Mambusao Rallies Sapianons to Protect Seagrass

Mambusao, Capiz-To help protect our blue carbon heroes,  the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Mambusao sounded a loud call to conservation on the shores of Brgy. Lonoy, Sapian, Capiz on March 2, 2026.

Through a focused Communication, Education, and Public Awareness (CEPA) activity, around 31 local fisherfolk, residents, and Bantay Dagat members gathered to learn why seagrass is vital not only for the ocean but also for the survival of its community and their livelihood.

Brgy. Lonoy Punong Barangay Pancho Orario and Sapian’s Municipal Agriculturist and ENR Officer, Deodith Grace H. Baticbatic, both reminded everyone that the gifts coming from the sea depend on how well humans treat it.

With the inspiring local message by the latter, “Kasubaan kag kadagatan amligan, b’was damlag sang Sapianon preparahan,” (Protect our rivers and oceans, secure the future of each Sapianon), Ms. Baticbatic emphasized that practicing sustainable fishing and supporting environmental inter-agency efforts are the best ways to ensure that the next generation of Sapianons will still have a sea to harvest from.

The DENR Region VI, Regional Executive Director, For. Raul L. Lorilla said, “It takes all the eyes and hands of the local community to make conservation work.”

“The activity is a strong testament that environmental stewardship is not done alone but is a shared responsibility,” he ended.

CENRO Mambusao’s OIC CENR Officer, For. Jonne L. Adaniel, discussed that seagrasses are far more than just "underwater grass." They act as the ocean’s nursery, providing a safe home for young fish, protecting the shorelines from erosion, and cleansing the water.

Technical personnel of CENRO Mambusao, including Myrine E. Gonzaga and Tia May Olivar, further detailed the local status of Sapian’s waters, highlighting how issues such as pollution and destructive fishing can be mitigated through community-led actions and the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). To further instill the importance of sustainability, CEPA materials were distributed to the local government and residents, serving as a constant reminder to build a more resilient and sustainable
coastline for Sapian./DENR6