Balungao Pangasinan Philippines
Dagupan City (24 September) — Agriculturists in Pangasinan have encouraged planting of mangroves as these provide both aesthetic and ecological benefits.
Supervising aquaculturist Zeny Ugaban of the office of the provincial agriculturist said mangroves not only beautify surroundings but also prevent siltation.
Ugaban said mangroves serve as breeding ground of fishes. “Yung mga dahon ng mangroves ay nagsisilbing pagkain ng mga isda at iba pang crustaceans,” Ugaban added during the ‘Pantongtongan Tayo’ radio program of the Philippine Information Agency.
She said there are three varieties of mangrove that are now being distributed by the provincial government to various organizations. These are the species of Bakawan, Bangalon and Pagatpat.
Ugaban encouraged planting in open areas during the months of October to February to get best results. Planting in areas near river systems can be done anytime.
She said that the province has been donating mangrove seedlings to organizations which are willing to plant mangroves. Among those with approved applications are the Philippine Coast Guard, Mangaldan town and the city government of Dagupan.
Dagupan City agriculturist Emma Molina said the seedlings will be planted along the highway in barangay Bonuan and along the new De Venecia expressway.
Molina said planting mangroves will encourage eco-tourism, protect embankment and provide a healthy recreation area for the public. (PIA-Pangasinan)