17/05/2026
Onward We Go: One Community, One Coast, One Mission
The Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) 125th Auxiliary Squadron NCR Central Luzon, under the supervision of AUX CAPT RAYMUNDO A NEJAL PCGA, spearheaded a coastal cleanup and mangrove nursery workshop in Barangay Salcedo 1, Noveleta, Cavite.
The environmental activity was conducted in partnership with Coast Guard Station (CGS) Cavite, Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Noveleta, CGSS Cavite City, Cavite Marine Environmental Protection Unit (MEPU), Cavite Maritime Police Station, Barangay Salcedo 1, Noveleta MENRO, and Build-A-Reef International Inc.
AUX COMMODORE NOEMI S. ALVARAN, PCGA, served as the Resource Speaker and discussed the proper harvesting and nursing of Api-Api seedlings (Avicennia marina). She demonstrated the correct process of collecting seedlings beneath mother trees for the establishment of a sustainable mangrove nursery. The mangrove species gathered were compliant with the guidelines and directives of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
According to Aux Commodore Alvaran, the community mangrove nursery may begin supplying mangrove seedlings for future tree-planting activities after approximately three months, including in nearby areas, subject to proper coordination with the barangay and the local MENRO. She also emphasized that with proper propagation and management, the nursery could become an additional source of livelihood for the community.
Meanwhile, Build-A-Reef International Inc., founded by President AUX RADM GERONIMO P. REYES, PCGA, donated sacks, shovels, and green basins to support the establishment and maintenance of the mangrove nursery.
The activity was coordinated by AUX CDR Laarni Meniado, PCGA, who also serves as a barangay official, and was organized in close coordination with participating agencies and stakeholders.
An estimated 80 bags of Api-Api seedlings were gathered and are now being nurtured for future propagation, while approximately 30 sacks of garbage were collected during the coastal cleanup. Though these may seem like small steps, this initiative reflects a shared commitment toward building a cleaner, greener, and more resilient environment for future generations.