Project MITHI—which stands for Mangrove-based Initiatives for Thriving Habitats and Inclusive Communities—aims to restore degraded coastal areas while supporting sustainable livelihoods.
During its inaugural year, the initiative will benefit three coastal communities: two in La Union and one in Southern Negros, leveraging existing partnerships with Oceanus Conservation.
“MITHI is more than just an environmental program. It’s a collaborative effort to empower communities as active conservation stakeholders through habitat restoration, ecotourism, and livelihood opportunities,” Nikki Lizares, VP and sustainability head of Security Bank, said in a statement. “By engaging with these communities, we hope to amplify their voices and leadership in tackling the climate crisis.”
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Eduardo Olbes, Security Bank EVP, chief financial officer, and sustainability committee chair; Rhoda Phillips, chair and founder of Communities for Nature, and Camille Rivera, director and co-founder of Oceanus Conservation. Also present were Oceanus Conservation’s board members, project teams, local government unit (LGU) representatives, and a community leader from Aringay, La Union.
Following the launch, Oceanus Conservation and Communities for Nature will visit project sites in Aringay, La Union, and Bais City, Negros Oriental, to engage with partner communities and kickstart conservation efforts.
Project MITHI’s key objectives:
