History of Mangroves in the Philippines

"Since 1980, 20-35% of global mangroves have been lost, current losses around 1% per year." In Figure 3, we can see that in the span of two years, Asia, which includes Philippines, has suffered the highest rate of mangrove loss comparison to all other continents. The loss of these mangroves are mostly due to the consequence of aquaculture but have also have declined due to the threats that I have already mentioned. Aquaculture and commercial fishing alone has destroyed a third of the world's mangrove forests in the past 50 years. Although there now exists many conservation organizations that support these mangroves in the Philippines, the seriousness of this protection was not acknowledged very long ago. 

Figure 3
Source: http://www.wri.org/blog/2015/02/satellite-data-reveals-state-world%E2%80%99s-mangrove-forests

A little over 10 years ago, the Philippine government placed the mangroves under protection, encouraging the process of conservation and reforestation of mangroves. Since then, there are many organizations that have supported these mangroves and have acted upon these threats such as raising and planting new mangrove seedlings.

Mangroves after Typhoon Yolanda

However, one of the most influencing events that showed the importance of the mangroves was when an unfortunate natural disaster hit. This natural disaster is most recognized as Typhoon Haiyan, or known in the Philippines as Typhoon Yolanda. In November 2013, Typhoon Yolanda became one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever recorded and the deadliest Philippine typhoon. In the Philippines alone, the typhoon of strong winds and furious flooding killed at least 6,300 people. Despite the devastating event, one element proved to have saved some lives.

One story specifically included a town named General MacArthur. This small Philippine community was along the path of the destructive Typhoon Yolanda herself. However, according to residents, they claimed to not have survived if it weren't for their mangroves that surrounded their community. In addition to their experiences, experts are able to reaffirm the importance of mangroves to these coastal communities. These mangroves act as natural shields and barriers against coastal flooding.

As the value of these mangroves became more apparent, more effort began to build.

Source: http://www.pri.org/stories/2013-11-29/saved-mangroves-philippine-town-dodges-haiyans-storm-surge
Source: https://www.rainforest-rescue.org/donate/150/mangrove-project-philippines