How Are Calatagan Barangays Building Coastal Resilience While Engaging Youth?

Community members and barangay personnel install bamboo structures along a riverbank in Barangay Carretunan, Calatagan as part of the riverbank stabilization activity supported by GeoHazards International – photo courtesy of GHI.

Calatagan, Batangas strengthened its coastal resilience efforts through simultaneous mangrove planting, riverbank stabilization, and youth advocacy activities led by Barangays Balitoc and Carretunan.

The initiatives were carried out as part of the monthly clean-up program of the Calatagan local government units (LGUs), with support from GeoHazards International (GHI). The activities form part of GHI’s ongoing work with local governments and communities to promote nature-based solutions for disaster risk reduction.

Barangay officials, led by Enriquito Taguibao of Barangay Carretunan and Rodelito Mailig of Barangay Balitoc, joined residents in simultaneous mangrove and beach forest associate planting, mangrove tree tagging, and a comprehensive coastal clean-up drive.

In Barangay Carretunan, the program also launched an initial riverbank stabilization activity, aimed at reducing the risk of bank failure and soil erosion—key concerns for coastal and riverside communities.

The activities were supported by the Office of the Mayor and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), aligning local conservation work with the municipality’s broader safety and sustainability plans.

The environmental efforts culminated in a program at Calatagan Senior High School, where students were recognized for creative advocacy work. Winners of inter-school competitions were awarded for their entries in a Documentary on Mangroves as Nature-Based Solutions, highlighting the importance of conserving mangrove forests, and an Interpretative Dance performance celebrating the resilience of the mangrove ecosystem.

The culminating program was co-organized by Mangrove Warriors, a youth volunteer group focused on mangrove protection and conservation.

GeoHazards International is a US-based non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives and reducing human suffering lives by empowering at-risk communities worldwide to build resilience ahead of disasters and climate impacts. The event was made possible through the financial support of PeakRe.

By combining community action, youth engagement, and environmental protection, Calatagan’s coastal barangays are taking concrete steps to prepare for future climate and disaster risks.

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