The Kanepackage (KP) Group of Companies, a Japanese packaging firm in Lapu-Lapu City, gave recognitions to four fisherfolk organizations in the Central Visayas for planting mangroves in their respective areas.
The Olango Island Eco-Tours Association in Olango Island in Lapu-Lapu City, the Banacon Fisherfolks and Mangrove Planters Association and the Banacon Growers of Seaweeds and Mangroves Association of Getafe town in Bohol and the Manipis Fisherfolks Association of Tanjay City, Negros Oriental helped Kanepackage plant a total of 5.8 million mangrove propagules in Olango Island, Banacon Island in Getafe and barangay Manipis in Tanjay City since 2009 during the launching of KP’s Green Earth.
The recognition was held last Saturday in Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa along with the launching of Kanepackage’s Coastal Green Project.
Stela Ompad, president of the Olango Eco-Tours Association based in barangay Sabang Olango Island, was grateful that their efforts were recognized.
She said Kanepackage does only give them monthly honorarium for taking care of the mangroves but also livelihood.
The association with more than 40 members are paid P8,500 per month for planting and taking care of the mangroves.
The event was also attended by Kanepackage president Yoshikazu Kanesaka together with company representatives from Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Philippines.