The ICTSI Foundation and Bauan International Port Inc. (BIPI), in partnership with Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), conducted a mangrove planting activity on 20 February 2026, in Barangay Banoyo, San Luis, Batangas.

A total 2,500 mangrove seedlings were planted, initiating Batch 2 of the ICTSI Mangrove Forest Enrichment Project. This initiative contributes to the overall target of 25,000 seedlings to be planted and maintained across the municipalities of San Luis and Lian until 2028, with the succeeding years dedicated to maintenance, monitoring and replacement planting to further strengthen coastal protection and advance local environmental management efforts in Batangas.

Representatives from the Samahan ng mga Mangingisda sa Banoyo, the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Municipal Government of San Luis, and the Provincial Government of Batangas participated in the activity. Volunteers from BIPI, led by general manager Ferdinand Magtalas, also provided active support.

The event was graced by San Luis Mayor Oscarlito Hernandez, who expressed appreciation for the strong collaboration among the private sector, civil society and government agencies.

Hernandez underscored the critical role of mangroves in mitigating storm surges, preventing coastal erosion and sustaining marine ecosystems that support the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.

This activity forms part of continuing efforts to rehabilitate and strengthen coastal ecosystems in the area. Through this partnership, the participating institutions reaffirm their commitment to sustainable environmental initiatives and to working closely with local communities to safeguard Batangas’ coastal resources.