Benedict Balderrama

Learning & Networking for Community-Based Mangrove Conservation and Rehabiliation

An area visit to a community mangrove site in Bohol.

We have been working with fisher communities on a community-based coastal resource management since 1992. We have been involved in fisher issues, especially in promotion of fisherfolk rights and management of coastal resource, including mangroves. Since last year, we have implemented the project in partnership with local fisher and women organisations.

Aside from this work we are also involved in coastal resource management, including mangrove rehabilitation in the provinces of Pangasinan and La Union in developing sustainable resource-linked livelihood enterprises through the ‘Save Lingayen Gulf Project’ of the UP Marine Science Institute.

This year we have started working with the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources – Coastal and Marine Management Office towards the holding of the first National Mangrove Framework and Development Plan.

Through this project we hope to maximise participation of community leaders in this conference by development capacities of local leaders for community management of mangrove resources through cross-visits and learning exchanges, strengthening links and sharing ties among them, and establishing a network of community leaders working for mangrove conservation and rehabilitation.

For more information contact dobalderrama@yahoo.com or philssanc@pldtdsl.net