First National Mangrove Youth Summit
The First National Mangrove Youth Summit brought together young environmental leaders from across the Philippines for a two-day learning and networking experience focused on mangrove conservation and coastal ecosystem protection. Organized by Mangrove Matters PH and partner organizations, the summit strengthened youth leadership, fostered collaboration among conservation advocates, and helped build a growing national network committed to protecting the country's blue carbon ecosystems.
Mar 23, 2025
In March 2025, Mangrove Matters PH convened the First National Mangrove Youth Summit, bringing together young environmental leaders from across the Philippines to strengthen youth engagement in mangrove and coastal ecosystem conservation.
Held at the Las Piñas–Parañaque Wetland Park, a Ramsar Site of international importance, the summit was organized in partnership with Oceana Philippines, Wetlands International Philippines, One Pawikan Initiative, and the Global Mangrove Alliance–Philippines. The two-day gathering served as a platform for learning, collaboration, and action, bringing together selected youth delegates who shared a common commitment to environmental stewardship and coastal conservation.
The summit featured expert-led discussions on mangrove ecology, blue carbon ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, environmental policy, and community-based conservation initiatives. Participants also engaged in immersive field experiences and interactive activities within the wetland park, providing opportunities to connect scientific knowledge with on-the-ground conservation realities.
A key outcome of the summit was the strengthening of a national network of young advocates dedicated to advancing mangrove conservation and climate resilience efforts across the country. By fostering collaboration among emerging environmental leaders, the initiative sought to empower youth to contribute meaningfully to conservation action within their communities and beyond.
The First National Mangrove Youth Summit marked a significant milestone in youth-led environmental engagement in the Philippines, reinforcing the critical role of young people in shaping the future of coastal ecosystem protection and sustainable development.