SUBIC BAY FREEPORT ZONE — A total of 300 mangrove seedlings were planted at the Binitican Mangrove Site in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on October 9, 2026, during a joint environmental initiative involving the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Regional Office III (BJMPRO-III) and in partnership with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Ecology Center.

The activity was led by BJMP Regional Office 3 in cooperation with the Directorate for Human Resource Development of BJMP National Headquarters, Olongapo District Jail–Male and Female Dormitory, Grandsec Reynold S. Fajardo Lodge No. 383, F.&A.M., as part of the observance of Community Relations Service Month.

A total of 57 BJMP personnel participated in the activity, led by Jail Chief Superintendent Paulino H. Moreno Jr. and Jail Chief Inspector Darrel Grezula.

The seedlings planted represented four native mangrove species: Bakawang Lalaki, Pototang Lalaki, Pototan, and Busain.

The initiative aimed to support coastal protection and environmental conservation through mangrove rehabilitation and collaboration among government agencies and community partners.

Mangroves help protect shorelines from storm surges and erosion, provide habitats and nursery grounds for marine life, and absorb and store carbon.

Photos courtesy of BJMP Region 3 and SBMA Ecology Center