Cordova, November 30, 2023 – In a collaborative effort aimed at restoring the Cordova Mangrove Propagation and Information Center, Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF), and the Municipality of Cordova signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the Cordova Municipal Hall.
This partnership emphasizes the dedication of MPIF and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Cordova in reviving the vital ecological hub damaged by Typhoon Odette. As the only Mangrove site in the Visayas, the agreement not only focuses on restoring the Mangrove Propagation and Information Center but also envisions its transformation into a sustainable tourism destination for the entire municipality.
The signing ceremony will also mark the relaunch of the Mangrove Eco-Guides Program, ensuring the daily upkeep of the center and providing informative tours for visitors keen on exploring the mangrove park and its surroundings. As part of their shared dedication to safeguarding coastal biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices, MPIF and the LGU of Cordova have agreed to continue the Mangrove Eco-Guides and the existing Mangrove Propagation and Information Center.
“I am confident that this MOA signing will mark the beginning of a fruitful and enduring partnership between
the Municipality of Cordova and MPIF, and I am excited to witness the positive impact it will have on our environment and our community,” said Melody del Rosario, President of Metro Pacific Investments Foundation.
A Commitment to Support Sustainable
Mangrove Conservation
MPIF spearheads this conservation endeavor through various avenues of support. To enhance the capabilities of the Mangrove Eco-Guides, MPIF initiates tailored enhancement training.
Simultaneously, MPIF provides essential material support, including uniforms, office equipment, and other necessary resources, ensuring the Eco-Guides are well-equipped for their pivotal role in the restoration and maintenance of the ecological center.
MPIF pledges a 50% share in the monthly allowance for four Mangrove Eco-Guides over a three-year period. Additionally, MPIF allocates a substantial Four Million Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP4,500,000.00) to the Municipality of Cordova, earmarked specifically for the repair and rehabilitation of the Mangrove Propagation and Information Center, which faced damage from Typhoon Odette.
Further enhancing this initiative, the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) extends its support by contributing funds raised from their Typhoon Odette disaster response and recovery operations to MPIF. This multi-faceted partnership highlights the shared commitment of both companies to actively conserve and protect the country’s coastal and marine biodiversity, emphasizing the critical role of mangrove ecology preservation in this collective mission.
Hon. Cesar “Dido” Suan, Mayor of Cordova, expressed his gratitude and full support for this partnership, saying, “The mangrove center will truly be a significant part of tourism in Cordova. On behalf of LGU Cordova, we wholeheartedly accept the project and your assistance. We look forward to this being just the beginning of our journey of mutual support. Rest assured, Cordova will always be by your side to assist you in whatever endeavor. Heartily, we accept the help of MPIF, and it truly empowers and strengthens us to continue aiding the people of Cordova.”
