Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc.
A project of PRRCFI, funded by Don Papa Rum, in partnership with the City of Sipalay
Project SEED is a conservation initiative by the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PRRCFI), supported by Don Papa Rum and the City of Sipalay. The project focuses on environmental restoration through two main components: coastal reforestation and giant clam reseeding.
Coastal Reforestation
The terrestrial component targets the coastal areas of Sipalay City, where two barangays and their respective people’s organizations were engaged to reforest their shores with native and endemic mangrove and beach forest species. So far, the project has restored 7 hectares of coastline. In partnership with Barangay Bulata, Cauayan—home to Danjugan Island—an additional 0.5 hectares were reforested through the collective efforts of local government units, youth, fisherfolk, and farming communities.
To support these efforts, Project SEED established two nurseries: one on Danjugan Island and another in mainland Bulata. These nurseries now host about 30 native species and approximately 6,000 seedlings, including the critically endangered Gapas-gapas (Camptostemon philippinense), known as the Philippines’ rarest mangrove. To date, the project has planted 19,325 seedlings and donated around 1,800 seedlings to the Municipality of Cauayan to bolster local coastal reforestation programs.
Giant Clam Reseeding
The marine component focuses on the conservation of the True Giant Clam (Tridacna gigas), the world’s largest bivalve mollusk. Conservation efforts on Danjugan Island began over 20 years ago under a project led by Dr. Edgardo Gomez, which involved reseeding coral reefs with juvenile giant clams. Despite challenges like predation, disease, bleaching, and typhoons, about 50 individuals remain today.
To continue this legacy, Project SEED reseeded 60 sub-adult giant clams sourced from the UPMSI Bolinao Marine Laboratory in Pangasinan. PRRCFI staff underwent specialized training in giant clam handling and SCUBA diving to ensure the clams’ proper care and maintenance. In celebration of PRRCFI’s 30th anniversary, the project also launched the Adopt-A-Clam program—a sponsorship initiative that allows individuals to support conservation efforts by adopting a clam. Sponsors receive exclusive benefits, including naming rights and monthly updates, while contributing to the long-term stewardship of Danjugan’s reefs.
Project SEED represents a collaborative commitment to restoring both land and sea ecosystems through science, community engagement, and sustainable action. Through partnerships and continued support, it offers a meaningful way for people to take part in protecting the Philippines’ vital coastal and marine environments—ensuring that these natural treasures thrive for generations to come.
