Green Guardians: Healthier & Greener Bakhawan

Environmental sustainability thrives on collaboration, and through Sagop Bakhaw: Green Guardians, JCI Mandaue brought together various community sectors—local government agencies, fisherfolk associations, and youth volunteers—to protect and restore Mandaue City’s last remaining mangrove forest.

As part of the Green Project of JCI Philippines, this initiative goes beyond tree planting. It exemplifies how diverse groups can unite to implement sustainable solutions, ensuring ecological balance while improving the well-being of the community.

Preserving Mandaue City’s mangroves is not just about planting—it’s about ensuring their growth and survivability. JCI Mandaue actively monitors these vital ecosystems, working closely with the Mandaue City Agriculture Office and Fisherfolks Associations from coastal barangays. Our Clean-up Drive successfully removed 70+ sacks of waste (1750 kg), safeguarding both century-old mangroves and newly planted ones from environmental threats.

Recognizing that plastic pollution is suffocating our mangroves, we collaborate with local communities to address waste reduction as part of our conservation efforts. Through fisherfolk dialogues, we empower community members to actively engage in waste reduction and prevention strategies, fostering a collective effort to protect the environment.

This marks the start of Year 5 of Sagop Bakhaw, powered by the collaborative spirit of our partners and volunteers:

• Mandaue City Agriculture
• Fisherfolk Associations of Mandaue
• Mandaue City Environment and Natural Resources Office
• Bantay Dagat – Mandaue
• Mandaue City Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council
• Power Move Builder
• Coastal Workers
• Clean & Green Office
• Eco Enforcer Office
• Kaabag Mandaue
• Barangay Homeowner Associations

Fueled by eco-bayanihan, the event concluded with a shared meal sponsored by Onward Car Rental Services for over 100 participants. With the activation of soon to be affiliated JJC Sugbo, the spirit of environmental advocacy continues to grow stronger.