June 24, 2024 - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is calling on all Filipinos to join the BakhaJuan Campaign, a citizen science initiative to validate the first-ever Philippine Mangrove Map. Launched earlier this year by the DENR and the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), this map is a crucial tool for protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems.
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Why Mangroves Matter
Mangroves are not just beautiful coastal forests; they are vital for the Philippines' environment and economy. These salt-tolerant trees act as natural barriers, protecting our shorelines from erosion, typhoons, and storm surges. They also serve as nurseries for fish and other marine life, contributing to food security and livelihoods. Additionally, mangroves are champions of carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change.
The BakhaJuan Campaign: Be a Part of the Solution
The Philippine Mangrove Map, created using satellite imagery, provides a valuable baseline for conservation efforts. However, ground-truthing this data is essential to ensure its accuracy. This is where you come in! The BakhaJuan Campaign invites volunteers across the country, particularly those living near mangroves, to participate in the validation process.
How to Get Involved
There are several ways you can contribute to the BakhaJuan Campaign:
- Become a Volunteer: Sign up through the DENR website to receive training and instructions on how to collect data in your local mangrove areas.
- Download the App: A mobile app is available for volunteers to easily record their observations and submit them directly to the DENR.
- Review the Validation Manual: This comprehensive guide provides detailed instructions on data collection procedures to ensure consistency and accuracy.
- Target Sites for Validation: Depending on your location, you can access specific links to see priority areas for validation in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
By joining the BakhaJuan Campaign, you'll be playing a vital role in protecting these precious ecosystems. Together, we can ensure the Philippine Mangrove Map is a reliable tool for guiding conservation efforts, safeguarding our coastlines, and preserving the rich biodiversity of our mangroves.