On October 25, 2025, United Parcel Service (UPS) Philippines, in their continuing partnership with environmental steward FEED (Fostering Education & Environment for Development) since 2024, embarked on their first-ever ECOSURF experience at Urbiz Garden in San Juan, La Union. 85 participants arrived with excitement for a day dedicated to marine and coastal protection, embodying the spirit of the “Ridge to Reef” framework.

Anne Marie Bakker of FEED introduced the Ridge to Reef concept, an integrated conservation approach that stresses the deep connection between upland forests, midland agricultural zones, lowland communities, and coastal ecosystems. This framework promotes sustainable practices essential for protecting biodiversity, minimizing pollution, and building long-term resilience for both human and natural systems.

 Complementing this understanding, FEED Ambassador Celso Jucutan provided a brief on corals. Corals are not plants or rocks, but colonial, plankton-eating invertebrate animals called polyps, which are related to sea anemones and jellyfish. Although tiny, these polyps secrete hard outer skeletons of calcium carbonate that build up over time to form the massive structures we know as coral reefs. They sustain themselves through a partnership with plant-like algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues.

This introduction set the stage for understanding the critical importance of corals and their biodiversity. Coral reefs are often called the “rainforests of the sea,” harboring over 25% of all marine species, despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. They provide essential nursery, spawning, and feeding grounds for countless fish and other marine life, directly supporting food security and the livelihoods of millions of coastal residents. Furthermore, they serve as crucial natural barriers, protecting shorelines from the damaging impacts of strong waves, storms, and erosion.

The day’s main activity was ECOSURF, one of the program’s key initiatives designed to reconnect people with marine environments through hands-on activities. The coral planting session emphasized the crucial role reefs play in coastal protection and fisheries.

Following the planting, the UPS team was divided for a balanced experience of action and appreciation. One group hit the waves, guided by the esteemed coaches from Jongky Surf School, enjoying the renowned swells of La Union. The other group undertook a vital beach clean-up along Urbiztondo beach, where they picked up significant non-biodegradable materials left by weekend tourists.

The sheer volume of trash, from cigarette butts to food wrappers, highlighted an essential lesson: Responsibility as a tourist means leaving a place better than you found it. Every traveler must be mindful of their environmental and cultural impact, making deliberate choices to minimize waste and respect local communities and their natural resources.

The participants also contributed to the land component of the Ridge to Reef framework by planting coastal native trees in the area. 85 native trees namely Bani and Talisay found in the Philippines and suitable for coastal planting.

The success of the ECOSURF program in La Union is a testament to the power of this partnership and community involvement in scaling up environmental action. UPS Philippines’ commitment to this initiative goes beyond a one-day event; it is an investment in the long-term ecological health of a vital Philippine coastal community. By physically engaging in coral restoration and tree planting, the employees were able to convert abstract environmental goals into tangible, shared accomplishments, fostering a deep sense of ownership over the natural resources they depend on.

Moreover, integrating the thrill of surfing with the duty of stewardship proves that conservation doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be an exhilarating experience. The fun, energy, and hands-on learning provided by Jongky Surf School’s coaches and the overall positive atmosphere of the day solidify the message that environmental protection is seamlessly integrated with the enjoyment of nature. This holistic approach is crucial for cultivating a culture of sustainability where appreciation and action go hand-in-hand, ensuring that the next wave of visitors and residents alike will treat the beach and the ocean with the respect they deserve. 

Adding to the spirit of the day, Sir John Paul Henson gave a heartfelt musical performance to close the program. The event also welcomed long-time FEED partners, the Bantay Dagat / Asosasyon ti Mangalap ken Mannalon iti Baroro, whose presence highlighted the vital link between marine conservation and local livelihoods. The team directly supported the community by purchasing local homemade products from Manang Bel, the wife of the community leader Manong Jesse, who sold delicious atsara and creamy peanut butter harvested from their local produce. Other local vendors, like Elyu Pasalubong, also offered native snacks and food items, ensuring that the tourism dollars flowed directly into the local economy and reinforced the sustainability loop.

This direct engagement with local fisherfolk and farmers demonstrates that effective environmental stewardship must be socially inclusive. By recognizing the Bantay Dagat’s role as the primary guardians of the sea and supporting their economic ventures, UPS and FEED established a model of partnership where the community is not just a beneficiary but an active, compensated partner in the mission. This vital connection ensures the longevity of the conservation efforts, as local residents have a stronger stake in preserving the environment that sustains their heritage and their business.

The day of sun, surf, and stewardship concluded with a delicious lunch prepared from a local vendor, Dong Villar of Charlen’s Kainan, leaving the UPS participants energized and deeply connected to their environment.

The day’s activities underscore the profound truth that our existence is not isolated; it is inextricably linked to the well-being of the ecosystems we inhabit, from the forested ridge to the vibrant coral reef. True coexistence demands that we move beyond merely consuming resources to actively respecting, protecting, and restoring the natural world. This hands-on commitment ensures that both humanity and nature can thrive together, guaranteeing a healthy environment for future generations to enjoy the same clear waves and rich biodiversity that La Union offers today.

About UPS

UPSers know that doing good in the world is also good for business. This has been a core value for our company for 115 years. Our latest Sustainability Report highlights the progress we’re making toward important goals that deliver “good” in the world, including achieving 100% carbon neutrality by 2050, and striving toward 30% women in full-time management globally and 40% ethnically diverse full-time management in the United States by 2025.

We have planted 28M trees since 2012 toward our goal of 50M trees by 2030.

For more details, visit: https://about.ups.com 

 

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