By Kenneth Marcos 
Along the quiet waterways of Malabon, local officials and environmental workers walked through muddy paths as they checked possible sites where young mangroves could soon take root. For many residents, the effort signals hope for stronger protection against floods that often hit the city.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Metropolitan Environmental Office–North has completed a site assessment for proposed mangrove nursery areas in Malabon City. The activity forms part of the Environmental Actions for Resilience and Transformative Humanitarian Interventions (EARTH) Project, which aims to boost climate resilience in vulnerable communities.
The assessment followed earlier coordination meetings led by Assistance and Cooperation for Community Resilience and Development (ACCORD) Inc., together with partner agencies involved in the project. To ensure a comprehensive and science-based evaluation, ACCORD invited technical experts from the DENR–NCR Conservation and Development Division. These experts provided guidance on water conditions, soil suitability, and other environmental factors needed for mangrove growth.
The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Malabon and officials of Barangay Dampalit also joined the inspection to ensure the findings match local conditions and community needs.
Three locations were examined as potential sites for the new mangrove nurseries. The first, the Materials Recovery Facility in Barangay Dampalit, was found unsuitable because of poor water flow that could hinder the proper growth of seedlings.
The second site, Damzon Street in Barangay Muzon, was assessed as a viable location due to clean water, adequate circulation, and the presence of natural mangrove stands nearby. These conditions increase the chances of successful propagation.
The third area, the Dampalit Megadike, was also recommended as a suitable site because of its wide open space that can accommodate larger nursery beds and future expansion.
The technical team evaluated each site based on suitability, possible risks, technical requirements, existing mangrove species, and the projected cost of establishing a nursery.
DENR–NCR continues to promote nature-based solutions such as mangrove rehabilitation across Metro Manila. Mangroves help reduce flooding, provide habitat for fish and wildlife, and strengthen the climate resilience of low-lying areas, especially communities in the CAMANAVA district. Officials said continued coordination with local and international partners is essential to building safer, greener, and more resilient neighborhoods.
As Malabon moves forward with the next steps of the project, residents and stakeholders hope the initiative will bring long-term protection and environmental recovery to the city’s coastal communities.
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