Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF) continues to make significant progress in environmental protection through its flagship program, Shore It Up.
In a renewed commitment to preserving marine ecosystems, MPIF has signed Memorandums of Agreement (MOA) with the local government units of Del Carmen and General Luna in Siargao, providing P4 million to support these efforts.
These projects are part of the MVP Group’s ongoing aid for the post-Odette programs. After completing the response, recovery, and rehabilitation phases, MPIF is now implementing the mitigation phase through these initiatives.
“Through these collaborative efforts, we are not only protecting our marine environments but also developing livelihoods, promoting environmental sustainability, and enhancing climate change resilience. At MPIF, we remain dedicated to supporting Siargao and its local communities, ensuring a positive impact on both the environment and the lives of the people,” MPIF President Melody del Rosario said.
MPIF has strengthened its long-standing partnership with Del Carmen through the Mangrove Protection and Information Center Program. This collaboration aims to enhance the capabilities of Mangrove Eco-Guides with tailored enhancement training, uniforms, office equipment, and materials. Additionally, MPIF will provide a monthly allowance for four Mangrove Eco-Guides over three years.
“It has been more than a decade since we have started our partnership with MPIF and the MVP Group when the Municipality of Del Carmen was an unknown local government and community to becoming a benchmark for environmental governance in the Philippines and recently, the world. Today, we are here again to show the continuity of the partnership and trust that allowed Del Carmen’s campaign and advocacy on the environment to transform our people and our governance to look into nature-based solutions for development,” Mayor Alfredo Coro, Jr. of Del Carmen said.
The partnership will also see the establishment of the Mangrove Protection and Information Center 2, continuing the efforts that have helped mitigate damages from typhoon Odette and promote environmental awareness and tourism.
In General Luna, MPIF is launching the Marine Protection, Inspection, and Conservation Guardians program.
This initiative aims to empower the local Bantay Kalikasan (BK) volunteers with training, enhancing their knowledge and competence in patrolling 5 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
They will also be provided with necessary tools of the trade such as GoPros, 2-way radios, GPS systems, and searchlights. These resources will empower the guardians to effectively monitor and protect their designated areas.
