THE first of its kind in the Visayas region, a P4.5 million rehabilitation project has revitalized the Mangrove Propagation and Information Center in the Municipality of Cordova, Cebu, signaling a major boost for climate resilience, coastal conservation and sustainable tourism in the region.
Spearheaded by the Metro Pacific Investments Foundation Inc. (MPIF), the renovated two-story facility is now set to serve as a learning hub, ecotourism site and community resource that supports local livelihoods while promoting mangrove preservation in the aftermath of typhoon Odette in 2021.
MPIF president Melody del Rosario said the renovated center represents a key step toward mangrove protection and community-driven environmental action.
“This center is not just a building. It is a symbol of partnership, science, stewardship and local pride. In MPIF, we believe that protecting our environment is not just a philanthropic duty or corporate responsibility, it is an act of love,” said del Rosario.
Mayor Cesar “Didoy” Suan, who was present during the inaugural ceremony, vowed to sustain the center and continue investing in the town’s environmental and development efforts.
In addition to new equipment provided for the facility, five community members were trained as mangrove eco-guides. These guides now lead tours, conduct orientations and assist in maintaining the mangrove park.
Selected by the local community, the guides underwent immersive training with environmental consultants and local government partners to learn best practices in mangrove conservation.
The initiative supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action, marine and land conservation, economic growth and global partnerships.
The MPIF is the corporate social responsibility arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corp., the parent company of Cebu Cordova Link Expressway Corp., which operates the 8.9-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway connecting mainland Cebu to Mactan Island. / DPC