The city's barangay with the largest mangrove cover was the latest beneficiary of the Coastal Clean-up and Mangrove Planting Activity of the UM College of Engineering Education and the Community Extension Center last January 31, 2026.
Brgy. Lasang is an identified Mangrove Protected Zone and together with the Tambongon Fisherfolk Association (TAMFIAS), has been a partner of the University from 2022 to present. During the activity, 18 faculty members from the six academic programs of Engineering along with 3 Non-teaching Staff and 28 community volunteers came together to clean the mangrove area, remove accumulated debris and pollutants, and planted additional mangrove seedlings at the expansion site.
This activity was initiated in response to the call from the Barangay Council of Lasang, the City Government, and the University of Mindanao to continue engaging in mangrove protection initiatives that helps address environmental issues, especially in coastal communities.
The collective efforts of the faculty, staff, and community members led to the collection of 5 sacks of solid waste that had been washed ashore from the sea and were able to plant 100 mangrove seedlings in the area. The project aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) 13: Climate Action contributing to climate change mitigation through mangrove restoration. Additionally, mangroves act as natural barriers against waves and storm surges that can damage homes and fishponds near the coastline. It also aligns with UN SDG 14: Life Below Water by protecting the mangrove ecosystems and reducing waste, it contributes to the rich marine biodiversity supporting fisheries and local livelihoods.
Through this initiative, the College of Engineering Education reaffirmed its commitment to community engagement, environmental sustainability, and collaborative action—demonstrating that small, collective efforts can make a lasting impact in building cleaner, safer, and more resilient communities for present and future generations.
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