In line with the aspirations of the Year of Community and to celebrate 50 years of strong bilateral relations between the UAE and the Philippines, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and the Embassy of the Philippines have planted 50 mangrove seedlings at Jubail Mangrove Park. This event highlights the shared commitment of both nations to environmental sustainability and a greener future.
As part of the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative (ADMI), the event was attended by His Excellency Alfonso Ver, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the UAE, Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, and Eng Abdulla Saeed Al Shamsi, General Manager of Jubail Island Investment Company (JIIC). The active involvement of multiple stakeholders underscores the importance of collaboration in addressing environmental challenges and promoting biodiversity conservation.
As part of the event, attendees were given a guided tour of Jubail Mangrove Park, highlighting its ecological significance and natural beauty and emphasising the importance of preserving marine and coastal ecosystems, while further strengthening the ties between the two nations.
Ahmed Al Hashemi said: “This significant milestone celebrates 50 years of deep and enduring relations between the UAE and the Republic of the Philippines, a testament to the mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values that have flourished between our nations. Beyond commemorating our diplomatic history, this event underscores our collective commitment to addressing some of the most pressing global challenges of our time, particularly sustainability and environmental preservation.
“Planting mangroves is more than just a symbolic act; it is a transformative step toward safeguarding the planet’s future. Mangroves are vital ecosystems that not only absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change, but also support rich biodiversity by providing habitats for countless marine and terrestrial species. Moreover, they act as natural barriers, shielding coastal communities from erosion, rising sea levels, and the devastating impacts of storms and extreme weather events.
“By coming together in this initiative, we demonstrate the power of international partnerships in driving meaningful change. This collaboration is a reminder that environmental stewardship transcends borders, requiring collective effort and shared responsibility. Through initiatives like this, we pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future, ensuring that the legacy we leave behind is one of resilience, harmony, and hope for generations to come.”
His Excellency Alfonso Ver said: “People's needs, such as food and energy, are deeply rooted in and actually taken from natural resources, which are directly affected by climate change. With the way natural resources are being utilised and consumed now, there is a need to emphasise and advocate for the protection and development of our natural resources, particularly mangroves. The Philippines is one of the countries that is also home to mangroves, which is now viewed as an efficient and excellent source of renewable energy, due to the naturally occurring factors in the ecosystems which they create.
“The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi is truly honoured to have this collaboration with the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the UAE. The Philippines shares the UAE's commitment to protecting the environment, as it celebrates 50 years of strong relations, as strong as the mangroves-with the UAE, which will last for another 50 years and beyond.”
Eng Abdulla Saeed Al Shamsi said: “We are honoured to host this meaningful mangrove planting initiative with the Philippine Ambassador at Jubail Mangrove Park. This natural sanctuary embodies our commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. Mangroves are not only a vital part of our ecosystem but also a powerful symbol of resilience and growth, much like the strong and enduring relationship between the UAE and the Philippines. This symbolic act of planting mangroves signifies our shared dedication to environmental stewardship and our collective hope for a sustainable future.”
The initiative serves as a testament to the enduring partnership between the UAE and the Philippines and their collective efforts to protect the planet for future generations.
