Fairtrade ‘s Action for Sustainable Livelihoods in Tagum city by Planting Over 3,000 Mangrove Seedlings in the Philippines

In the heart of the Philippines, Tagum and Moises Padilla have become beacons of resilience and sustainability thanks to the collaborative efforts under the Mangrove Planting and Emergency Support Program. Spearheaded by Fairtrade NAPP and its partners, this initiative addresses immediate climate and disaster challenges and lays the groundwork for sustainable livelihoods in local Fairtrade communities.

The program focuses on two primary activities: improving a multi-purpose evacuation center and restoring coastal ecosystems through mangrove planting. The evacuation center, located in Negros Occidental, provides a secure refuge during natural disasters, doubling as a community office during calm times. Meanwhile, mangrove planting supports climate change mitigation, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and creates opportunities for eco-tourism, all while protecting vital coastal ecosystems.The program focuses on two primary activities: improving a multi-purpose evacuation center and restoring coastal ecosystems through mangrove planting. The evacuation center, located in Negros Occidental, provides a secure refuge during natural disasters, doubling as a community office during calm times. Meanwhile, mangrove planting supports climate change mitigation, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and creates opportunities for eco-tourism, all while protecting vital coastal ecosystems.

1. Evacuation Centre Development:

• Constructed a multi-purpose centre with contributions from paid carpenters and local members.
• Cleared surrounding areas and utilized resources like mixing and filling sand sourced through municipal partnerships.

2. Mangrove Nursery Establishment:

• Established a 40 sqm nursery housing over 3,000 seedlings.

Involved community members in collecting wildlings, bagging, watering, weeding, and setting up protective nets.Improved planting sites by addressing muddy areas and fortifying them with sand.

The project has already delivered tangible benefits:

· Functional Evacuation Centre: The centre now serves as a safe haven during disasters and a meeting space for the Maria Cecilia Farm Workers Association (MACFAWA). It also secures the organization’s property and provides a base for its activities.

· Sustainable Livelihoods: The mangrove nursery offers a steady supply of seedlings, creating income opportunities while contributing to mangrove rehabilitation.

· Community Collaboration: The program has unlocked potential for future projects and funding by establishing networks with local government and agencies.

Emilio Dakingking, Tagum City Forester, City Agriculture Office (CAGRO) a close supporter of of the DAVNOR Fairtrade Coconut Farmers Association, expressed his gratitude: “I am very thankful to FTNAPP for this project. It connected us to DFCFA and the Mayor’s Office, which introduced us to the BASID Program. This will significantly help rehabilitate our coastal mangroves, contributing to resilience and climate adaptability.”

Similarly, Nimfa Miraflores of MACFAWA shared her relief: “Thanks to Fairtrade NAPP and Fairtrade Germany, the evacuation center has become a vital resource for our community. It provides immediate refuge during disasters like the volcanic eruption we are currently experiencing.”

Despite its success, the program faces challenges such as high labor costs and limited funds for completing the evacuation center and expanding the nursery. However, these hurdles also present opportunities for deeper community engagement and stronger partnerships with government agencies for additional support.

To ensure long-term impact, the project will focus on:

· Monitoring and mentoring for future projects.

· Securing funds to complete the evacuation center’s tiling and fencing.

· Expanding the nursery and purchasing necessary materials like polyethylene bags.

The Mangrove Planting and Emergency Support Program showcases the transformative power of collaboration between Fairtrade, local communities, and government agencies. By combining disaster preparedness with environmental restoration and sustainable livelihoods, the program not only addresses immediate needs but also builds a resilient future for the people of Tagum and Moises Padilla.