On a bright and breezy summer day in La Union, last March 9, 2025, participants from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) gathered for a meaningful and energizing immersion with nature under ECOSURF—an initiative of Fostering Education and Environment for Development, Inc. (FEED). The event, held in the coastal village of Taboc, San Juan, brought together BSP staff and local community partners for a day of beach clean-up, mangrove planting, coral reef awareness, and surfing—an experience that blended environmental education with recreation and cultural exchange.

The day kicked off at Urbiz Garden, one of FEED’s longstanding eco-conscious partners. Anne Marie Bakker, FEED’s Program Lead, welcomed the group and introduced them to the “Ridge to Reef” framework—an integrated conservation approach that recognizes the interdependence of upland forests, midland agricultural zones, lowland communities, and coastal ecosystems. The Ridge to Reef Program promotes sustainable practices that protect biodiversity, reduce pollution, and ensure long-term resilience for both human and natural systems.

One of the program’s key initiatives is ECOSURF—an environmental education experience that combines ecological stewardship with surf culture. ECOSURF aims to reconnect people with marine and coastal environments through hands-on activities like mangrove reforestation, coral reef restoration, and sustainable tourism. By pairing environmental learning with outdoor sports like surfing, ECOSURF helps participants develop a deeper appreciation for the oceans and the communities that depend on them.

The group then proceeded to plant mangroves with the help of local fisherfolk from the Asosasyon ti Mangalap ken Mannalon iti Baroro. Mangroves are vital for stabilizing coastlines, absorbing carbon dioxide, and serving as nurseries for young fish and marine life.

Participants rolled up their sleeves and conducted a beach clean-up along the stretch of Taboc Beach. Plastic waste and marine debris were collected, sorted, and documented. Beach clean-ups are not only important for beautifying coastlines, but they also help prevent ocean pollution, protect marine animals from ingesting or getting entangled in plastics, and inspire a culture of environmental responsibility within local communities.These activities were followed by surf lessons led by instructors from Jongky Surf School, founded by local surfers Jong Magsanoc and Rhea Ventura, who is also one of ECOSURF’s co-founders. All instructors are certified in surf safety and instruction, ensuring a fun and secure learning environment for all.

Although the coral planting was postponed due to strong swells, participants engaged in a coral propagation demonstration to learn the fundamentals of coral gardening. The session emphasized the crucial role coral reefs play in marine biodiversity, coastal protection, and fisheries. Healthy coral ecosystems are nurseries for countless marine species, and their preservation is essential for food security and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

The message of interconnectedness was echoed throughout the day: from ridge to reef, from forests to mangroves, from underwater life to human communities—each part of nature relies on the other. Biodiversity is a complex web where the disappearance of one species can trigger imbalances that ripple across the entire system. Protecting marine habitats ensures cleaner oceans, supports food chains, regulates climate, and provides sustainable livelihoods. When we care for the Earth, we ultimately care for ourselves. In a time of climate instability, unity between communities and ecosystems is more critical than ever. We all have a role to play—big or small—in preserving this fragile balance.

To end the eco-adventure, a hearty binalot-style lunch was served by Charlen’s Kitchen, a homegrown restaurant that celebrates local flavors and hospitality. Participants feasted on delicious Filipino dishes wrapped in banana leaves, capping off the day with good food and great conversations. Included in the event are community entrepreneurs who sold local and homemade produce like manang Belle’s peanut butter harvested in Baroro.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has been a steadfast partner of FEED through the years. This collaboration continues to grow, rooted in shared values of sustainability, education, and community engagement. FEED is deeply honored to support BSP in building a living legacy for future generations—one that thrives in harmony with Mother Nature.

To all the participants, partners, and communities who joined hands to make this day a success—thank you. Together, we ride the waves of change, from ridge to reef.

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About the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is the central bank of the Republic of the Philippines. It was established on 3 July 1993 pursuant to the provisions of the 1987 Philippine Constitution and the New Central Bank Act of 1993. The BSP took over from Central Bank of Philippines, which was established on 3 January 1949, as the country’s central monetary authority. The BSP enjoys fiscal and administrative autonomy from the National Government in the pursuit of its mandated responsibilities.

For more details, visit: bsp.gov.ph

🌱 How Companies Can Make a Difference through FEED’s Programs

FEED integrates environmental stewardship with community empowerment. Companies that partner with FEED can make lasting, measurable impacts in several ways:

1. 🔗 Participate in Community-Centred Reforestation:  FEED’s tree-planting initiatives prioritize native and fruit-bearing trees, promoting ecological restoration and local food security. These projects are implemented with local communities, especially farmers and indigenous peoples, who are trained and employed to plant and maintain trees.
2. 💼 Support Sustainable Livelihoods: FEED links reforestation with alternative income programs—such as agroforestry, ecotourism, and education grants—creating long-term value for communities. This reduces dependency on destructive practices like illegal logging or slash-and-burn agriculture.
3. 📚 Invest in Environmental Education: Companies can sponsor awareness campaigns, capacity-building workshops, and student scholarships that promote environmental literacy and sustainability.
   Education ensures that environmental gains are protected by future generations.
4. 📈 Enhance ESG Performance: Participation in FEED’s programs helps businesses meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets and align with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 1 (No Poverty).
5. 🤝 Demonstrate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):  By integrating tree planting and sustainable livelihoods into CSR strategy, companies not only improve their public image but also build stronger relationships with local communities.

✅ Summary: Why Partner with FEED?

• Local expertise, national impact: FEED works closely with communities and stakeholders in reforestation hotspots, always on the lookout for qualifying communities in critical areas across the Philippines and those particularly seeking  support and partnerships focused on building and expanding on their capacities.
• Holistic approach: Combines tree planting, education, and livelihood support.
• Transparency and scalability: Programs are measurable, with clear environmental and social metrics.
• Long-term sustainability: Ensures planted trees are maintained, communities benefit, and ecosystems are restored.