Environmental groups, fisherfolk, scientists, and local officials are urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritize and certify as urgent the proposed National Coastal Greenbelt Act, a landmark bill designed to protect the country’s remaining mangrove forests and coastal ecosystems. Dozens of handwritten letters addressed to the president were delivered to Malacañang on Monday as part of the “Dear Mr. President” campaign initiated by youth group Mangrove Matters Philippines (MMPh) and international marine conservation organization Oceana.

Environmental advocates Press Marcos on Coastal Greenbelt Bill. (2025, June 17). Daily Guardian, p. 10.