On February 17, 2016, St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc. (SMCII), through the Mother Ignacia Center for Social Responsibility (MICSR) in partnership with Graduating Students, conducted a Mangrove Planting Activity in Barangay Santiago, Iligan City, during the Second Semester of Academic Year 2016–2017.

The activity aimed to promote environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and community involvement by engaging students in the restoration and protection of coastal ecosystems. Mangrove planting plays a vital role in preventing coastal erosion, protecting marine biodiversity, and serving as a natural defense against the impacts of climate change. Through this initiative, participants actively contributed to strengthening the ecological sustainability of the community’s coastal environment.

Beyond its environmental impact, the mangrove planting activity served as a meaningful avenue for experiential learning and values formation, particularly for graduating students preparing to become responsible professionals and citizens. The activity reinforced the importance of collective responsibility, care for creation, and service to the community—core values embodied in SMCII’s mission of faith, excellence, and service.

The initiative also strengthened collaboration between the institution and the local community, fostering a shared sense of ownership in environmental conservation efforts. By participating in hands-on ecological restoration, students gained deeper awareness of environmental issues and the long-term benefits of sustainable practices.