𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍: 𝐋𝐞𝐭'𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬.

We are calling on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to withdraw or substantially revise its Memorandum dated October 8, 2025, titled “Interim Operational Guidance and Conditions on the Earth-Balling and Relocation of Mangroves in Exceptional Circumstances.”

While the memorandum claims that mangroves should not be removed or disturbed, it introduces a dangerous loophole: it allows the earth-balling and relocation of mangroves for infrastructure “flagship projects” endorsed by government authorities, once proponents claim that all other mitigation measures have been exhausted.

𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠.

Mangroves are not movable infrastructure. They are complex, living ecosystems that serve as natural storm barriers, prevent coastal erosion, support fisheries, store vast amounts of blue carbon, and sustain the livelihoods of coastal communities. Scientific evidence consistently shows that earth-balling and relocation of mangroves result in extremely low survival rates, irreversible damage to root systems, biodiversity loss, and permanent degradation of ecosystem services. Removing mangroves, even temporarily, can trigger long-term ecological and economic harm.

The memorandum’s definition of “exceptional circumstances” is dangerously broad. Allowing exemptions for infrastructure projects creates a clear pathway for mangrove removal across the country, particularly in ecologically sensitive coastal areas. If left unchallenged, this interim guidance risks becoming standard operating procedure across DENR regional offices, effectively rolling back decades of mangrove protection policy in the Philippines.

Renowned mangrove scientist Dr. Jurgenne Primavera has publicly called for the repeal of this memorandum, citing its lack of scientific basis and the grave ecological risks it poses. Her call reflects the consensus of mangrove researchers and conservation practitioners who have dedicated decades to protecting these vital ecosystems.

Mangroves are not obstacles to development. They are frontline defenses against climate change, irreplaceable natural infrastructure for disaster risk reduction, and essential to food security and community resilience. Allowing their relocation for short-term economic gain contradicts the principles of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

We therefore urge the DENR to:
1. Withdraw or substantially revise the October 8, 2025 memorandum
2. Remove the infrastructure project exemption that allows mangrove earth-balling and relocation
3. Uphold the strongest possible, science-based protections for mangrove ecosystems under the precautionary principle

This petition is supported by members and friends of the Global Mangrove Alliance Philippines, alongside scientists, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens.

Every signature is a call to protect our mangroves, and the communities that depend on them. Together, we can safeguard the Philippines’ coasts for present and future generations.