For a typhoon-prone country such as the Philippines. Despite their importance, mangrove forests in the country have significantly diminished over the years. From 450,000 hectares in 1918, the area covered by mangroves dwindled to 303,373 in 2015, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Urban development, as well as the conversion of land for aquaculture and residential purposes, have been identified as the main drivers of mangrove loss.

Roots of the sea, roots of life. (2024, September 30). Daily Tribune, p. G37.