26/02/2026
The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) is spearheading a 2-day World Wetland Day Celebration centered on the theme "Preserving our Wetlands: Mangrove Tree Planting and IEC on Wetland Protection and Advanced Documentation Training". The activity, held on February 26-27, 2026, is designed for our environmental enforcers - Bantay Dagat and Bantay Kalikasan teams.
DAY 1: EMPOWERING ENFORCERS THROUGH Knowledge - The first day proved to be highly successful, bringing together key stakeholders to advanced wetland conservation efforts in Sulat.
Mr. Usbaldo Cortez the municipal administrator deliver the welcome address on behalf of Hon. Mayor Javier E. Zacate , setting the tone for meaningful collaboration. Next, EMS II/MENRO Designate Annaviv Zacate-Limbo led a discussion on "Wetland Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage", highlighting the deep connection between local Communities and these vital ecosystems. ILT Oscar B. Peralta attended the event, shared a message of unwavering support and commitment, and guided a lively discussion with active participation from all attendees. Municipal Agriculturist Marcial Mercadal also expressed his backing, emphasizing the significant role wetland areas play in the municipality's agricultural and ecological landscape. John Andrew L. Lobina presented an overview of Philippine environmental laws and explained them, with a special focus on regulations specific to Sulat. Mr. Brando Rama Monderin then covered Evidence-Based Enforcement, detailing best practices for recording observations, GPS tagging, and proper documentation procedures. DILG Officer Maria Lynar A. Medina underscored the activity's importance and urged for the program to be expanded to all barangays across the municipality to maximize environmental impact.
The day concluded with the election of Officers for Bantay Dagat and Bantay Kalikasan teams, the formal adoptation of their Constitution and By-Laws (effective immediately), and an oath-taking ceremony administered by Miss Annaviv Z. Limbo. The session wrapped up with group photo opportunities. Tomorrow, February 27, the celebration will continue with mangrove tree planting activity at Brgy. Sto. Niรฑo, Sulat - a hands-on step towards restoring and protecting local wetland habitats.
This initiative would not have been possible without the strong support of our local leadership: Hon. Mayor Javier Em Zacate, Hon. Vice Mayor Dionesio Evardone III, SB Committee on Environment Chairman Hon. Sofia Isabelle Zacate, and all members of the Sanggunian Bayan.