Mangrove Matters PH

Written by Matthew Vincent Tabilog, Founder of MMPH Today is World Seagrass Day, a day to recognize one of the ocean’s most vital yet overlooked ecosystems. Often mistaken for seaweeds, seagrasses play a critical role in promoting climate change mitigation, biodiversity, fisheries, culture and tradition, and coastal protection. Conserving them is important and in doing so, learning more about this marine habitat is the first step. What are Seagrasses? Seagrasses inhabit an extremely...

Written by: Adrian "Jace" Lepiten, Science Communication Vice Lead Photo courtesy of Maxwell Ridgeway,  Unsplash The Philippines is renowned as a global hotspot for mangrove diversity, showcasing an impressive array of around 40 distinct species of true mangroves  that thrive throughout its sprawling archipelago. These lush coastal forests play a vital ecological role, providing habitat for numerous marine and terrestrial species. However, the extent of mangrove cover has experienced...

“I will not sugarcoat the serious problems faced by mangroves in our country.” The line dropped by Ney when asked about the risks faced by these coastal wetlands.  Ney Cortez, Science Communication Lead of Mangrove Matters PH, shares her insights as a speaker during the panel organized by The Southeast Asian Exchange last January 31, 2026. Ney emphasized the serious threats to mangroves, including reclamation, unscientific coastal development, improper planting, and others. In addition, the...