Ecosystem Restoration Philippines Project #61656

Support Citizen Scientists in the Philippines

by ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc.

Project Report | May 18, 2026
Expansion of the Citizen Science Online Tool

By Trisha Mandap | Senior Resource Mobilization Officer

Training Session

In phase II, the project aims to work closely with primary and key stakeholders to eventually incorporate the coral reef data into a citizen science online tool. These primary and key stakeholders are people who will benefit from the project, are directly impacted by the formulation of coral reef dashboards, and require more careful management of the data-collection method for reef health. The project essentially began as an online consultation meeting and dialogue with the partner local government unit, academic institution, and selected partner civil society organization (CSO) on how to further expand the citizen science online tool and incorporate coral reef data during phase 1. To materialize what has been discussed during the consultative meetings. The ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. conducted a stakeholder meeting and an assessment of the knowledge, attitude, and perception (KAP) of the partner local government unit, academic institution, trained citizen scientist team, and selected community members regarding what the coral reef dashboard should look like and how it should be user-friendly. It was held on January 27- 29, 2026, and 26 individuals who participated in the paper-and-pencil survey came from various community sectors, offices, and associations.

The results of this assessment were sent to the local government unit for further discussion and served as the basis for the formulation of the coral reef dashboard. The Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception (KAP) model is widely used to determine that knowledge gain leads to attitude formation, which then eventually drives behavior change. According to the survey results, 15 of 26 respondents showed poor knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding the importance of marine ecosystems. This may sound alarming in most rural areas, given the lack of education and awareness of the importance of ecosystem services that humans receive. Continuous IEC and monitoring through the citizen science online tool to address these issues. One key aspect of the paper-and-pencil survey questionnaire was the technicality of its content, and the usefulness of the coral reef dashboard to small fishers. All of the participants answered that they understood and appreciated the importance of having a coral reef dashboard, which provides data-driven insights to monitor ecosystem health, track bleaching events, and guide conservation efforts among fishers and other stakeholders who actively protect and conserve their natural and coastal resources. Subsequently, the coral reef dashboard addressed the key problems, including low fishery production in the area, degraded coastal ecosystems, Non-implementation of Environmental laws, and low environmental awareness of local residents. Through the citizen science online tool and the coral reef dashboard, the duty bearer can ratify ordinances and laws related to protection and conservation efforts. Also, this will enable fishers, among other stakeholders, to gather vulnerable data on reef health, understand the value of coral reefs and other marine organisms that thrive in the area, and formulate a nature-based solution.

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Jan 21, 2026
Citizen Science Reef, Seagrass, and Mangrove Protection

By Nicole Andrea Ramos | Resource Mobilization Officer

Sep 24, 2025
Filipinos Connect To Their Roots Through AFI

By TRISHA MANDAP | Senior Resource Mobilization Officer

ABS-CBN Foundation International, in partnership with ABS-CBN Foundation Inc., recently completed another cycle of the Journey of the Heart (JOH), an immersive experience designed to foster meaningful connections between participants and local communities championing social missions on environmental stewardship and economic development. This year’s program was held in Lobo, Batangas, a coastal town located in the Verde Island Passage—recognized as the center of the world’s marine biodiversity.

The program was designed to help global Filipinos, especially the youth and educators, reconnect with their Filipino identity while gaining firsthand insight into the rich natural ecosystems, biodiversity, and the communities that protect and depend on these resources.

Participants engaged in citizen science efforts, including hands-on coral reef and mangrove monitoring, a solid waste management workshop, and eco-friendly practices shared by local residents. They also stayed with host families, allowing them to experience daily life in a coastal barangay. One of the highlights was the Earth Warrior Games, a friendly community activity that fostered teamwork and celebrated the Filipino spirit of bayanihan.

“I came here expecting to learn, but I leave with a stronger responsibility to act,” said Xavier Jose Macalalad, a UC Berkeley student and member of the Filipino Association of Scientists, Architects, and Engineers.

“Being on the ground changed how I see environmental justice. It’s not just science—it’s cultural, political, and deeply human,” added Reese Mendoza, student delegate.

“What inspired me most was how people here protect their home with so little. I want to do my part, starting with raising awareness and bringing resources back,” said Jamielle Angelique Leones, also a student participant.

The timing of this year’s JOH was especially significant. The Philippines is currently facing major environmental threats, including stronger typhoons, El Niño-induced droughts, and ongoing damage to its coasts and marine ecosystems. These issues disproportionately affect the most vulnerable families.

Reana Cuevas, Project Development Officer of ABS-CBN Foundation Galing Pamayanan, emphasized the program’s deeper purpose: “This is not just immersion; it’s activation. We’re cultivating partners, not just volunteers. And now, more than ever, we need more hearts and hands on the ground.”

Through Journey of the Heart, ABS-CBN Foundation aims to inspire and build a strong network of Filipino advocates—individuals who will help advance the Foundation’s mission to protect the environment, support children’s welfare, build safer communities, promote education, and help families achieve sustainable livelihoods.

The program also reflects the Foundation’s long-term commitment to working alongside communities—not just through short-term aid, but by understanding their challenges, collecting meaningful data, and co-creating practical, community-led solutions. This kind of heart-driven leadership is especially vital as the climate crisis continues to escalate.

This event was made possible by ABS-CBN Foundation International, Bantay Dagat, Olo-olo Seaside Workers Association (OSWA), Samahan ng Maliliit na Mangingisda sa Pangangalaga ng Kalikasan sa Brgy. Lagadlarin (SMMPKBL), and the Local Government Unit of Lobo.

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