Continuing a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI), Aboitiz Construction, Inc. (ACI), and Aboitiz Foundation formalized their second partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on May 26 at Aboitiz Construction's Head Office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
The MOA signing reflects a collaboration to strengthen environmental protection and community resilience through the enhancement of an existing mangrove area in Barangay San Isidro, San Fernando, Cebu.
This partnership builds on RAFI and ACI’s mangrove restoration project in Lian, Batangas, started in 2024, which enhanced 0.15 hectares of mangrove area through the production and planting of 1,455 Avicennia marina seedlings, engaging 82 local fisherfolk, and achieving a 99% survival rate as of mid-2026.
Under the new project, 1,000 mangrove seedlings will be produced, planted, and nurtured across approximately 0.10 hectares, with a target survival rate of at least 85% by project turnover. The initiative will run from 2026 to 2029.
The project also aims to empower the local community by equipping 25 members of the San Isidro Farmers and Fisherfolk Association (SIFFA) with skills in mangrove enrichment, including plantation design, nursery establishment, seedling production, site preparation, and maintenance. Capacity-building interventions will support the organization’s long-term sustainability, while project activities will provide additional income opportunities for partner fisherfolk.
Initial activities have already been conducted, including project orientations with SIFFA, coordination with the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of San Isidro and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of San Fernando, Cebu, as well as the identification of fruiting mangrove species for propagation.
RAFI CEO and President Amaya Cristina A. Fansler highlighted the significance of the partnership, especially as RAFI celebrates its 60th year:
“As RAFI celebrates 60 years, it’s always our pleasure to come back to the group that started this journey with us and has also evolved with us. One to Tree used to be plain tree growing or a compliance-driven activity, but the program has grown to include communities and ensure they are part of the impact. Thank you for your continued support over the last few years. We look forward to continuing this partnership and to the actual mangrove planting in Cebu.”
This partnership reflects the continued collaboration of RAFI and ACI to work together in supporting both the environment and local communities.
🌱 Partner with RAFI One to Tree to scale mangrove restoration efforts and create lasting impact for coastal communities and ecosystems.
