A total of 1,000 mangrove seedlings were planted by Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members from the Ecclesiastical District of Capiz at the coastal area of Barangay Pantalan, President Roxas, Capiz, Philippines on June 7, 2025. 

Spearheaded by district supervising minister Brother Raul Ysagun Sr. and the district leadership, the activity was aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and disaster resilience, especially in times of calamity, and so seedlings of mangrove trees were deemed appropriate to be planted a few meters away from the shoreline. When fully grown, mangroves are proven significant to protect coastlines from flood and storm surges while helping prevent the progression of climate change (unep.org).

The tree-planting activity was “well-coordinated with the local government and barangay officials to secure the necessary permits,” said Brother Daniel Anievas Jr., resident minister of Pres. Roxas Congregation, which facilitated the activity being held at a nearby village.

“Seedlings were carefully sourced for planting, while our congregation prepared essential equipment, including boats to transport participants to the site and conducted assessments to determine the ideal planting location,” Anievas added.

The event not only strengthened environmental awareness among brethren but also reinforced their spirit of unity and volunteerism for their fellowmen’s welfare. “I helped in accommodating my brethren from other congregations. Indeed, through this activity, the Iglesia Ni Cristo’s spiritual and environmental concern have been evident,” said Mark Bais, KADIWA president of the host congregation.

“I’m grateful to God and the Church Administration for this activity, as it will greatly benefit both our environment and the livelihood of fishermen by providing shelter for marine life that sustains many in our community,” head deacon Antonio Alcudia of Pres. Roxas Congregation remarked. “The brethren and residents alike are joyful for this, knowing it will have a lasting positive impact on our barangay.” — With reports from Marlon Cruz and Capiz District Multimedia