Global Environmental Leaders Join Forces to Save Aklan’s Coasts

Ibajay, Aklan- Moving towards international collaborative efforts, the Katunggan It Ibajay (KII) Mangrove Ecopark in Aklan recently became the center stage for global climate action, as the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Aklan serves as
one of the facilitators to a high-level delegation from the National Blue Carbon Action Partnership (NBCAP).

Leaders from the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia, alongside experts from the World Economic Forum representing Belgium, the United Kingdom, and France, explore the world’s most successful Blue Carbon models—KII Mangrove Ecopark. Spanning around forty-four (44.42) hectares across the barangays of Naisud and Bugtongbato, Aklan, the KII Ecopark serves as a living laboratory of biodiversity.

While the delegation explored the sanctuary through the newly completed 1.6- kilometer boardwalk, designed to support research and eco-tourism activities without harming the ecosystems in the area. The boardwalk is one of the infrastructure enhanced by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) VI and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Ibajay for the visitors to experience and see firsthand the diverse mangrove species in the area, including twenty-seven (27) out of the thirty- five (35) mangrove species found in the Philippines.

The park is dominated by the majestic, century-old Bungalon/Api-api/Pi-api (Avicennia rumphiana) trees that provide a home to seventeen (17) recorded bird species, such as the Arctic Warbler (Phylloscopus borealis) and the Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus), which proves that environmental preservation and vibrant ecosystem go hand-in-hand.

The success of the Ecopark in ensuring the long-term management, conservation, and sustainable development of the ecosystem is rooted in the strong partnerships between the DENR, the LGU of Ibajay, local People’s Organizations, like Amligan Katunggan it Naisud and Bugtongbato (Amlig-KANABU), the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), and other dedicated stakeholders.

By integrating scientific expertise from the World Economic Forum and NBCAP with the dedication of local Aklanon communities, the KII Mangrove Ecopark stands as a global proof for climate resilience and coastal protection./DENR6