A “Coastal Greenbelt Zones” is being proposed in Iloilo City to protect its coastal and mangrove forests.

“The Coastal Greenbelt Zones refer to a strip of natural or planted coastal vegetation whenever applicable from the sea towards land, primarily of mangrove and beach forest species, which are designed to prevent coastal erosion and mitigate the adverse impact of natural coastal hazards in human lives and property,” Councilor Romel Duron said during the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council) on Wednesday.

In a follow-up interview, Duron said they will identify coastal barangays to be developed, and protect existing forest mangroves in the city, including Balabago and Bito-on in Jaro, Boulevard in Molo, and Hinactacan in La Paz district.

Mandatory mangrove planting will also be undertaken in identified areas.

“Actually, we are mandated by the Department of the Interior and Local Government to protect our coastal barangays. During calamities like flooding, typhoon and storm surge, they (mangroves) help cushion the impact,” he said.

The proposed ordinance mandating its creation will also provide penalties for illegal cutting of mangroves, as there are areas that are being converted into fishponds.

He said the initiative will also benefit fisherfolk because of increased fish population in the mangrove areas.

Duron said they will be coordinating with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, City Environment and Natural Resources and other concerned agencies in crafting the proposed ordinance.

They will also invite host barangays for their suggestions and conduct an ocular inspection.

“We need to protect mangrove areas, especially since we are an urban city,” he added.

Duron added that the established mangrove areas even earned the city an international award just recently.

The proposed ordinance was approved on first reading. (PNA)