Environment
PSFI is dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability and conservation efforts both within its operational sites and across partner communities. Through its initiatives, PSFI strives to bolster community resilience against climate change impacts while fostering a culture of environmental stewardship, in line with SDG 13: Climate Action.
Environment
PSFI is dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability and conservation efforts both within its operational sites and across partner communities. Through its initiatives, PSFI strives to bolster community resilience against climate change impacts while fostering a culture of environmental stewardship, in line with SDG 13: Climate Action.
2023 at a Glance
Transformation Stories
● Juanita Combinido — President of the Nagkakaisang Samahan ng Isla Felomina Snorkeling and Dive Site, Palawan
● Tubbataha Marine Park Rangers — Palawan
Coastal and Marine Protection
PSFI began adopting the Ridge-to-Reef approach in 2018 at a pilot area in Cagayan de Oro, implementing initiatives that rehabilitate forests, wetlands, and coastal and marine ecosystems.
In 2023, the Foundation implemented a series of small initiatives such as capacity training and awareness education, supported the implementation of existing environmental policies and mechanisms, and provided necessary materials, equipment, and technology to community partners. PSFI is also exploring ways to increase the recycling of plastic waste and provide livelihood opportunities by establishing EcoHubs, currently implemented in CDO and Tacloban and in the early stages in Batangas. With Palawan widely regarded as the last ecological frontier, the Foundation collaborates with local partners and the provincial government in its advocacy to conserve the environment.
The Foundation and SPC terminals closely coordinated to organize beach cleanups throughout the year. The concerted efforts of over 2,000 volunteers in 2023 led to the collection of approximately 20,440.2 kg of waste, with plastic making up a staggering 92.7% (18,939.2 kg).
Cagayan de Oro: A Ridge-to-Reef Approach
63 individuals were trained on Biodiversity Conservation and Protection and Climate Change and 65 participants attended the Environmental Conservation Awareness Session. The program reached three schools, four barangays, and seven groups in CDO. A two-day Capability Training on Environmental Conservation and Protection was effectively conducted and attended by 39 individuals from various government agencies.
At the Bonbon Mangrove Reserve Area, a nursery was established, and a significant mangrove planting initiative was conducted. 162 volunteers participated in the activity, resulting in 500 mangroves planted in the Bonbon Mangrove Reserve Area.
Protecting Palawan
Turismo at Negosyo Dulot ng Ingat Kalikasan (TANDIKAN)
TANDIKAN is a community-driven initiative dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism and preserving Palawan’s rich biodiversity, especially its UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In 2023, it assisted the nine CBST groups and trained 211 individuals in financial management. Additionally, it established three nurseries and engaged 5,438 individuals in environmental activities, indicating a notable increase in community capacity and project sustainability.
A Mid-Year Evaluation and Planning Workshop was held for the CBST sites of Northwest Cluster to enhance organizational resiliency and marketability amidst global disruptions. The workshop involved thirty members from six CBST associations and aimed to devise a short-term strategic plan.
Notably, the program received several accolades in 2023. Its significant impact was acknowledged when nominated in the prestigious League of Corporate Foundations’ (LCF) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Guild Awards for the Environment Category. This recognition was reinforced by Puerto Princesa’s Tourism Office and Youth Development Office, which commended TANDIKAN’s influence in three city events.
Tubbataha Program
The enduring partnership between the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Management Office (TMO) and PSFI continues to thrive through the “Sustaining Conservation Gains Through Public-Private Partnership” project. Building upon a decade-long collaboration, this initiative remains dedicated to preserving the integrity of the natural ecosystem.
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP) program has successfully protected the park’s ecosystem. This approach combined three key elements: enforcement, research, and public awareness. Increased patrols, new equipment, and successful legal actions against illegal activity have strengthened enforcement. Meanwhile, research using advanced technology has deepened scientific understanding of the TRNP ecosystem, contributing valuable knowledge to global marine conservation efforts. Finally, educational campaigns reaching thousands through schools, social media, and events have fostered awareness of environmental responsibility among the public.
