A groundbreaking initiative combining the natural strengths of mangroves and vetiver grass has been launched in Pasacao, aiming to fortify the town’s coastline against climate change and natural disasters. The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Pasacao and the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) unveiled the Bio-engineered Mangrove-Vetiver Rehabilitation Project on February 21, 2025, introducing a novel approach to coastal restoration.
This project builds upon existing mangrove research by Asst. Prof. Sheryl San Andress of CBSUA Pasacao Campus, now enhanced with the expertise of Dr. Melchora V. Abonal, head of the CBSUA Vetiver Center. Their collaboration integrates the proven benefits of vetiver grass, known for its soil-binding properties, with mangrove restoration. The CBSUA Resilience Center, led by Dr. Philip N. Talay, further strengthens the initiative by incorporating Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) strategies.
The project’s launch featured a symbolic planting of mangroves and vetiver along the Esplanade in Barangay Sta. Rosa Del Norte, uniting university personnel, government representatives, academic partners, and residents. Students from CBSUA’s Environmental Science program actively participated, while Environment Management Officer Chris Ian Pan and Karl Jayson Collat facilitated the event, laying the groundwork for future community partnerships.
Municipal Mayor Hon. Jorge R. Bengua expressed his appreciation and dedication to the project, highlighting the critical role of collaboration in revitalizing Pasacao’s estuaries and rivers. Sheryl San Andress shared insights from her ongoing mangrove and riverine inventory research, educating participants on the project’s importance.
Dr. Talay outlined CBSUA’s commitment to long-term collaboration, promising to provide materials and technical expertise to enhance ecosystem rehabilitation, mitigate disaster risks, adapt to climate change, and improve the livelihoods of Pasacao residents.
Dr. Abonal concluded the event, reaffirming CBSUA’s unwavering support for the project, ensuring its sustained success in safeguarding Pasacao’s coastline for generations to come. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘋𝘳. 𝘗𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘱 𝘕. 𝘛𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘺
