October 21-22, 2025 | Barangays Talaga and Taloot, Argao, Cebu
As part of the Networking of Marine Protected Areas through Coastal LGUs Alliance Project (NMCLAP) funded by the Unico Conservation Foundation, the Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation (CCEF) conducted a site validation for potential mangrove nursery establishment in Barangays Talaga and Taloot, Argao, Cebu on October 21–22, 2025.
The activity was carried out in collaboration with the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO), Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), and local people’s organizations—Talaga Fishermen Association (TAFA) and Nagkahiusang Mananagat sa Taloot (NAGMATA).
In Barangay Talaga, the team joined by Mr. Edward Vinan (Fishery Technician) and Mr. Walter Calledo (MAO staff) observed encouraging natural regeneration in a site previously impacted by Typhoon Odette in 2021. Multiple mangrove species were identified, including Avicennia marina, Rhizophora apiculata, and Sonneratia alba, indicating strong ecological resilience and suitability for continued rehabilitation.
In Barangay Taloot, the team met with Hon. Virgilio Rizon, Barangay Captain, who expressed full support for the initiative. A 500-square-meter site was identified for nursery expansion beside an existing LGU-managed area, while nearby abandoned fishponds were also recognized as priority zones for future mangrove reforestation. The team also engaged with NAGMATA, led by Mr. Rene Dialima, to assess the site and discuss community-led restoration efforts.
Across both barangays, the validation revealed thriving mangrove stands and areas needing enrichment planting and maintenance. These insights will inform the design and implementation of the planned Mangrove Nursery Establishment in Argao, advancing NMCLAP’s goals of enhancing MPA management, promoting biodiversity conservation, and empowering communities to lead coastal restoration.
