Authors

Mario P. Ballesteros, Jr.*
Philippine Christian University, Manila, Philippines

James Paje
Philippine Christian University, Manila, Philippines

Leo Christopher M. Gaspar
Philippine Christian University, Manila, Philippines

Christine Mae V. Alagon
Philippine Christian University, Manila, Philippines

Lemuel John A. Hernandez
Philippine Christian University, Manila, Philippines

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems provide essential ecologic balance, economic, and social benefits by protecting coastlines from erosion, marine biodiversity support, sustaining the fisheries sector, and enhancing the resilience of coastal communities to climate-related hazards. In the Philippines, numerous mangrove conservation and rehabilitation initiatives have been implemented through the collaborative efforts of Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), international groups, academic institutions, and local communities. While many studies have evaluated the ecological outcomes of mangrove rehabilitation, comparatively limited attention has been given to assessing the effectiveness of community participation and institutional support in sustaining conservation initiatives over the long-term. This study aims to assess the current status of mangrove conservation and community participation in the Municipality of Orani, Bataan, with particular focus on the Mangrove Conservation and Protection Project in Barangay Kabalutan (Tubo-Tubo area). Specifically, the study examines the level of community participation, environmental awareness, stakeholder collaboration, institutional support, and implementation of local conservation policies that contribute to the sustainability of mangrove management initiatives. Guided by the principles of community-based natural resource management and participatory environmental governance, the study adopts a mixed-methods approach that integrates surveys, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, field observations, and document analysis. The findings are expected to provide a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and challenges of the municipality’s mangrove conservation efforts beyond traditional ecological indicators. The study is anticipated to demonstrate that successful mangrove conservation depends not only on habitat rehabilitation but also on active community engagement, effective leadership, collaborative partnerships, and consistent institutional commitment. The results will serve as the basis for developing a Sustainable Mangrove Management Plan that will strengthen biodiversity conservation, improve community-based coastal resource management, enhance climate resilience, and support evidence-based environmental policymaking in the Municipality of Orani and other coastal communities with similar ecological and governance contexts.

Keywords: Mangrove conservation, community participation, community-based natural resource management, participatory environmental governance, sustainable mangrove management, coastal resource management, climate resilience, Orani, Bataan.

*Corresponding author / Email: marioperonoballesteros@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS05031352

Recommended citation:
Ballesteros, M., Jr., Paje, J., Gaspar, L. C. M., Alagon, C. M. V., & Hernandez, L. J. A. (2026). Assessment of mangrove conservation and community participation in the municipality of Orani, Bataan: Basis for the development of a sustainable mangrove management plan. Pantao (International Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences) 5 (3), 1603-1617. https://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS05031352

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