DAANBANTAYAN, Cebu — The Province of Cebu and Acciona Energia, in partnership with the Municipal Government of Daanbantayan, successfully conducted a tree planting and coastal cleanup activity on September 15, 2026. More than 100 volunteers gathered for the environmental conservation effort.
A Collective Effort for Environmental Protection
Volunteers from the Provincial Government, municipal and barangay officials, community members, and Cebu Technological University Daanbantayan Campus joined the activity. Barangays Talisay and Agujo also participated. The collective effort reflected a shared commitment to protecting Cebu's natural resources.
The activity forms part of the environmental commitments under the Environmental Compliance Certificate of the Daanbantayan 150-MW Solar Power Plant Project. It also supports the province's broader climate resilience initiatives. The partnership demonstrates how public and private sectors can work together for sustainable development.
Planting for Biodiversity and Coastal Protection
Participants planted a total of 551 saplings consisting of mangrove species and native wood trees. These were distributed across designated restoration areas within the coastal zone. The initiative aims to enhance biodiversity and strengthen ecosystem services.
Mangroves play a critical role in coastal protection by reducing erosion and buffering storm surges. Native wood trees contribute to long-term carbon sequestration. Together, they help restore the ecological balance of the area while supporting local climate adaptation efforts.
Representatives from the Province of Cebu and ACCIONA emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, communities, and educational institutions. They noted that the activity nurtures a culture of environmental responsibility that will benefit future generations.
Cleanup Drive Restores Coastline
In line with Coastal Cleanup Month, participants conducted a cleanup drive within and around the mangrove planting sites. Volunteers collected plastics, discarded fishing materials, and other debris washed ashore by tides and currents. The cleanup ensured a healthier environment for the newly planted saplings to thrive.
The combined efforts of reforestation and coastal cleanup created meaningful environmental outcomes. By addressing both land and sea, stakeholders contributed to the protection of local ecosystems. The activity also raised awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal in coastal communities.
Supporting the Solar Power Project's Sustainability Goals
The Daanbantayan 150-MW Solar Power Project is Acciona Energia's first photovoltaic plant in the Philippines. It is being developed in partnership with the Province of Cebu. The project's Environmental Compliance Certificate requires tree planting and coastal cleanup activities as part of its sustainability commitments.
ACCIONA has maintained a strong presence in the Philippines since 2016 through its Water and Infrastructure divisions. The company delivered flagship projects such as the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway and the Putatan II and Laguna Lake water treatment plants. Its foundation has also helped underserved communities gain access to electricity since 2021.
Building a Culture of Environmental Stewardship
The successful event highlights how collective action can create lasting environmental benefits. Stakeholders from government, the private sector, academe, and local communities worked side by side. Their efforts demonstrate that sustainable development requires active participation from all sectors.
The Province of Cebu continues to pursue initiatives that protect natural resources while supporting economic growth. The partnership with ACCIONA reflects a shared vision of a greener, more resilient future for Cebu and its people.
