August 2025

Strengthening Community Impact: CNSC-IEG Monitors ASAP Projects in Camarines Norte Municipalities By: CNSC ESD, 2025 The CNSC-Institute for Environmental Governance (IEG) continues its commitment to responsive and relevant community engagement through the recent monitoring of Area Specific Action Plan (ASAP) projects in the municipalities of Basud, Daet, Mercedes, Talisay, and Vinzons. These monitoring visits aim to assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that extension initiatives remain aligned with the needs and aspirations of partner communities. In Brgy. Mangcamagong, Basud, the CNSC-IEG Team assessed two potential sites for the proposed mangrove nursery project—one with stunted Bakauan and dry, rocky soil, and another with Bani and Nipa species affected by mangrove cutting and overharvesting. The evaluation highlights the site’s potential for future reforestation, with recommendations to identify existing mangrove species, properly zone replanting areas, and conduct community orientation to promote awareness and local involvement in mangrove conservation. In Daet, five Job Order Deputized Fish Wardens regularly conduct coastal monitoring using three patrol boats acquired in 2018; however, one engine is currently malfunctioning and all vessels require maintenance. To improve the chances of approval from Tanggol Kalikasan, Inc., the LGU revised its ASAP proposal by removing the communication device component and recommending the replacement of the faulty engine. For the proposal’s resubmission, it must include the patrol boats’ proof of ownership, contracts of the Deputized Fish Wardens, and an updated Law Enforcement Plan. In Mercedes, the initial plan to install river garbage traps was revised due to concerns over durability, shifting the focus to watershed protection in Brgy. Colasi through seminars, tree planting, and tree tagging. Now titled “Developing Awareness on Watershed Protection: Start-up to Sustainable Ecotourism Project,” the initiative targets 100 participants, 400 trees, and 100 tags by late 2025. To strengthen impact, the revised proposal should be finalized with support from partners like DENR, formation of local eco-stewards, hands-on training, efficient use of the ₱50,000.00 budget, and clear monitoring and risk management strategies. In Talisay, Ms. Zuzette Ann O. Asis, Fisheries Technologist, expressed appreciation for Tanggol Kalikasan’s support and gained approval to use improvised materials for buoy markers in their Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The installation, scheduled for June 23, 2025, in San Jose, aims to mark water boundaries between Talisay and Vinzons, with monitoring set for August 6. To enhance community engagement, Ms. Asis was also recommended as the Resource Person for an awareness campaign with the San Jose Beach Fisherfolk Association, promoting the significance of buoy markers and encouraging sustainable fishing practices. In Vinzons, Ms. Rosela J. Sayno expressed gratitude for Tanggol Kalikasan’s continued support and affirmed her commitment to the project, noting that the newly elected mayor is also expected to back the initiative. She highlighted that similar activities, such as crown-of-thorns starfish extraction in Calaguas Beach, are regularly supported by the MDRR Office. The next extraction, based on BFAR’s assessment, is set for July 23–25, 2025, at Mahabang Buhangin, to be led by 10 local divers. To boost community involvement, Ms. Buenvinuto was recommended as Resource Person for an awareness campaign on the ecological impact of the species, while DENR-PENRO expressed intent to collaborate with Tanggol Kalikasan, recognizing its active role in the provincial fisheries council. By actively engaging with local stakeholders and beneficiaries, the IEG Team reaffirms its dedication to fostering inclusive development and sustainable impact. The insights gathered will guide the continuous enhancement of CNSC’s extension programs, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for grassroots transformation in Camarines Norte.