Mangroves in Kalibo, Aklan have continuously been cut down and converted to firewood. The loose soil that results from this then produces an unpleasant domino effect. Waves and tidal currents that normally strike the shoreline of the coastal barangays of Aklan easily lead to erosion. Consequently, this decreases the yield of the Aklan-based fisherfolks leading to scarcity in fishes, shells, crabs, and mollusks.

      Sensing the need to respond to this situation, a local NGO organized the families of the various fisherfolks in Aklan into an association called the Kalibo Save the Mangrove Program or simply the KASAMA program. The goals were to reforest a 50 hectare swampland located at the mouth of the Aklan River and to protect the shoreline from illegal tree cutters and foraging animals.

      Because of the cooperation of all the KASAMA members, the goals of the program were achieved and more. The survival rate of the mangrove trees was 97%, the shoreline was protected from waves and tidal currents, tidal flats which were previously too soft and muddy had hardened, and the abundant marine life in the area was restored leading to an increase in income for the fisherfolks.

      In April 1994, the KASAMA was awarded the Forest Land Management Agreement (FLMA) by then President Fidel V. Ramos in recognition of the organization’s commitment to protecting the mangroves.