By Camilla Bañares | The Mine Environmental Protection and Enhancement Department (MEPED) of Eramen Minerals Incorporated (EMI) celebrated World Wetlands Day 2025, which usually takes place on February 2. This year, due to scheduling changes, the event was held on April 5, 2025, in Barangay Sabang, Sta. Cruz, Zambales. The theme for the celebration was “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future,” emphasizing the important role wetlands play in supporting wildlife, regulating our climate, and protecting communities.
To raise awareness and get the community involved, MEPED organized an educational campaign. This initiative aimed to highlight why wetlands are important, the dangers they face, and how we can help conserve them. Participants learned that wetlands can act as natural barriers against flooding, store carbon to help reduce climate change, and provide homes for various animals and plants. The goal was to give everyone practical knowledge and encourage them to take care of their environment.
The event also included a mangrove planting activity in the coastal areas of Barangay Sabang. Volunteers, along with EMI staff, worked together to plant young mangrove trees. This effort helps support marine life and strengthen the shoreline. Overall, the activities fostered a sense of community involvement and reinforced EMI’s dedication to protecting our natural resources and caring for the environment.
