BATAAN — Environmental groups kicked off Earth Month activities in the province with a mangrove planting and sanctuary cleanup drive in Barangay Balut, Orion, urging communities—especially the youth—to take an active role in protecting the environment.
The Nuclear-Free Bataan Movement (NFBM), together with the Young Bataeños for Environmental Advocacy Network (YoungBEAN), led the initiative as part of a broader campaign promoting environmental justice, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
Around 100 participants joined the activity, including employees from Concentrix in Alabang, students, and members of the Boy and Girl Scouts. Representatives from school-based environmental organizations and students from various institutions in Bataan also took part.
YoungBEAN Secretary General Eric Beren emphasized the vital role of the youth in environmental protection, saying young people must act as “agents of change” in safeguarding natural resources and ensuring a sustainable future.
Both groups highlighted ongoing threats to Bataan’s remaining mangrove areas, citing reclamation projects, industrial expansion, and unsustainable development practices. They stressed the need for stronger community involvement and grassroots action to preserve coastal ecosystems.
The organizations also called on local government units, schools, businesses, and residents to support environmental initiatives and adopt practices such as mangrove conservation and waste reduction in their daily lives.
In addition, NFBM and YoungBEAN urged the government to prioritize environmental protection and community welfare over activities they described as destructive and polluting, warning of the long-term impacts of environmental degradation and the climate crisis.
The activity was conducted in coordination with the Sangguniang Barangay of Balut and the Municipal Agriculture Office of Orion.
Organizers said the Earth Month campaign will continue with more activities aimed at raising awareness and strengthening community participation in environmental protection efforts.
📸 Nukes-Coal Free Bataan
Ang Pahayagan 
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