A simultaneous tree planting activity was spearheaded by the maritime police across Palawan on Tuesday to reaffirm its commitment to environmental conservation and protection.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Leopoldo Ferrer Jr., commander of the 2nd Special Operations Unit-Maritime Group (2nd SOU-MG) led the activity in Sitio Magarwak, Barangay Sta. Lourdes in Puerto Princesa City, joined by personnel in Sitio Bukana, Brgy. Aramaywan, Narra; Sitio Balisungan, Brgy. Tagumpay, Coron; and Brgy. Indalawan, Balabac.
The 2nd SOU-MG said in a release that the “large-scale” environmental effort saw the active participation of numerous law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders, including the Coron Municipal Police Station (MPS), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Coron, Narra Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), 410th Auxiliary Squadron, Palawan Provincial Mobile Force Company (PPMFC), Barangay Officials, students from Indalawan National High School, the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) Balabac, local fisherfolks, and other volunteers.
Together, they planted a total of 550 mangrove (bakawan) propagules in coastal areas and 50 fruit-bearing trees in other areas.
“The simultaneous planting effort is part of the Unit’s ongoing mission to promote sustainable practices, raise public awareness, and contribute to the long-term preservation of maritime and coastal resources. Mangroves, in particular, play a critical role in maintaining the stability and health of coastal areas, acting as natural defenses against storm surges and serving as essential habitats for various marine species,” the 2nd SOU-MG said.
The maritime police in the province stated that alongside its partners and stakeholders, it remains steadfast in its mission to protect the environment, particularly the vital maritime resources of Palawan.
