Environment secretary sees mangrove conservation to reduce flooding in Bataan

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Mitch Cuna is pushing for the conservation of wetland and mangroves to protect communities and livelihoods in Bataan.

During his visit to the Balanga Wetland and Nature Park in Bataan on 29 October 2026, Cuna highlighted how wetland and mangrove conservation protects communities and livelihoods.

He said that the initiative is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen disaster preparedness and environmental protection.

He furthered that the DENR advances nature-based solutions to reduce flood risks, protect fisheries, and sustain local fisherfolk’s livelihoods.

"Today, healthy wetlands and mangroves serve as natural defenses against flooding in the surrounding communities, provide habitats that support fisheries, and help sustain the livelihoods of local fisherfolk," he said.

"Hindi kailangang magastos and mga solusyon. Minsan, ang kalikasan mismo ang ating pinakamahalagang kakampi sa pagprotekta sa mga komunidad," he added.

During his visit, Cuna saw how the healthy mangroves at the Balanga Wetland and Nature Park in Bataan served as a shield for the people of Barangay Tortugas.

Wetland ecosystems like mangroves act as natural flood barriers by slowing down storm surges, absorbing excess water, and drastically reducing wave energy before it hits coastal communities. Healthy mangrove forests can absorb up to 70% to 90% of wave energy during intense storms. Their unique, complex root networks and dense vegetation create immense friction that physically blocks and dissipates oncoming surges.

Mangroves prevent flooding thru wave energy dissipation, as the dense aerial roots, sturdy trunks, and low canopies of mangrove forests create a physical barricade. Just the first 100 meters of a healthy mangrove forest width can reduce wave energy by up to 66%.

Another is the sponge effect wherein coastal wetlands function like massive natural sponges. They absorb, hold, and gradually slow down millions of gallons of incoming tidal surges and floodwaters, preventing them from rushing directly inland.

Last is the shoreline stabilization, with the intricate root systems of the mangroves trap sediment and build up the soil bed. This vertical growth helps shorelines actively keep pace with sea-level rise while preventing severe coastal erosion.