Prieto Diaz Mangrove Ecosystem wins 1st prize of Best Mangrove Award in Bicol

Antonio Abawag (second from right), DENR Region 5 officer-in-charge regional executive director, hands over the cash prize and plaque to Mayor Benito Doma, who represented the Prieto Diaz Mangrove Ecosystem in Diaz, Sorsogon that bagged the 1st prize of the Best Mangrove Award in Bicol. (Photo from DENR)

MANILA, Philippines — The Prieto Diaz Mangrove Ecosystem in Prieto Diaz, Sorsogon bagged the first prize of the Best Mangrove Award in the Bicol region, which was launched to recognize the outstanding mangrove rehabilitation and management by local government units, organizations, and local communities.

Antonio Abawag, Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 5 officer-in-charge regional executive director handed over the cash prize and plaque to Mayor Benito Doma who represented the Prieto Diaz Mangrove Ecosystem, the DENR said on a press statement Thursday.

Sorsogon Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office officer-in-charge Herleo Pavericio and Joselito Domdom, who represented the Seamancor Eco-Developers Inc. organized by the DENR in 1994, also witnessed the awarding.

Mangroves locally known as “bakawan,” are vital natural resources that sustain coastal and marine ecosystems. They also protect coastal communities from storm surges and other natural disasters and are sources of livelihood for some local residents.

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