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The Philippines is among the countries that have increased their mangrove cover over the past four decades, offering hope for coastal conservation and ecosystem recovery.
According to Global Mangrove Watch (GMW), the country gained 473.43 square kilometers of mangrove cover between 1985 and 2025, bringing its total mangrove habitat to 3,037.78 square kilometers.
Global Mangrove Cover Shows Encouraging Growth
Worldwide, mangrove cover recorded a net gain of 477.2 square kilometers, or 0.3%, between 1985 and 2025.
Australia posted the largest increase, adding 1,396 square kilometers, followed by India with 1,180 square kilometers, Pakistan with 439 square kilometers, and Senegal with 349 square kilometers.
A study published in Science in June 2026 found that global mangrove cover had largely recovered since 2010, with forest loss and degradation rates slowing over time.
Mangroves are expanding into new habitats and regenerating in former ones, signaling promising opportunities for ecosystem recovery. GMW said afforestation and restoration efforts have contributed to these gains.
Filipino Communities Lead Mangrove Restoration
In the Philippines, government programs and community-led initiatives are helping restore these vital coastal forests.
Fisherman Roberto “Dodoy” Ballon, who organized fellow fisherfolk to pursue mangrove reforestation in Zamboanga Sibugay, received the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2021 for his community-based conservation work.
Meanwhile, Del Carmen in Siargao expanded its mangrove reserve by approximately 500 hectares between 2012 and 2025. The municipality also gained recognition as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
These achievements highlight how local leadership and collective action can help protect the environment.
Mangroves Protect Communities and Fight Climate Change
Beyond supporting food security and livelihoods, mangroves help shield coastal communities from storm surges and rising sea levels, GMW said.
They also play an important role in fighting climate change by storing carbon. According to GMW, mangroves can sequester carbon at rates up to four times higher than terrestrial forests.
The Philippines’ mangrove gains offer an encouraging reminder that conservation and restoration efforts can deliver lasting benefits, from healthier coastlines to stronger, more climate-resilient communities.
