Security Bank employees, partners, local communities, and youth volunteers take part in a mangrove planting activity in Luna, La Union as Project MITHI enters its second year.

As part of its 75th anniversary celebration, Security Bank marked the second year of Project MITHI with a coastal conservation and communication engagement activity in Barangay Bungro, Luna, La Union. Employees, local communities, government agencies, and youth volunteers planted nearly 500 mangrove seedlings, contributing to the Bank’s target of planting 7,500 seedlings this year.

Beyond mangrove rehabilitation, the activity also included environmental education sessions for children and financial literacy workshops for adult community members, reflecting Project MITHI’s broader focus on strengthening the resilience of coastal communities.

“Project MITHI is about creating impact that lasts beyond a single activity,” said Nikki Lizares, Sustainability Head of Security Bank. “As we celebrate our 75th year, we want to contribute to communities in ways that strengthen both people and the environment. Restoring mangroves, building environmental awareness, and sharing practical financial knowledge are all part of helping communities become more resilient over time.”

Mayor Gary Pinzon of Luna, La Union underscored the importance of mangrove rehabilitation in strengthening environmental protection and climate resilience. He thanked the volunteers and partner organizations for their support, noting that environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility. “Every mangrove seedling we plant today restores hope, resilience, and a collective commitment to preserving our environment.”

Mangrove rehabilitation requires sustained community participation to create long-term impact.

“Mangrove rehabilitation is a long-term investment in both nature and communities,” said Angela Mariz Obsina, Project Lead of MITHI from Oceanus Conservation. “Local residents help monitor and care for the seedlings because they understand the protection healthy mangroves can provide against the impacts of climate change. When nature thrives, communities become more resilient. By protecting our ecosystems, we are also protecting ourselves.”

Project MITHI is a partnership between Security Bank, Oceanus Conservation, and Communities for Nature that supports mangrove rehabilitation, biodiversity conservation, environmental education, and inclusive community development in coastal communities across the Philippines.

Now in its second year, Project MITHI forms part of Security Bank’s broader sustainability efforts to support environmental protection while building stronger, more resilient communities.