By: Carlo Carlos

The OML Center presented its on-going project on “Assessing the Role of Coastal Vegetation in Storm Protection and Provision of Other Ecosystem Services” during the National Workshop on Harmonizing the Guidelines on Mangrove and Beach Forests Development and Management held last 26-27 June 2014 at the Century Park Hotel in Malate, Manila. The event was co-organized by the DENR Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau and USAID through the Biodiversity and Watersheds Improved for Stronger Economy and Ecosystem Resilience (B+WISER) Project.

The objective of the workshop was to serve as an avenue for discussion and consultation on the following: 1.) improvement and finalization of the draft guidelines of the Mangrove and Beach Forests Development and Management (MBDM), 2.) suitability of various areas for rehabilitation and development of mangrove and beach forests, and 3.) availability and suitability of the development of coastal greenbelts as coastal defense in relation to mangrove and beach forest management.

Aside from presenting its on-going project, the Center also served as a discussant on improving the Capability, Sustainability and Institutional Development component of the guidelines. The MBDM Guidelines shall serve as DENR’s reference on implementing future initiatives on the Mangrove and Beach Forest Development in the country.