Enhancing Green Spaces Through Stakeholder Engagement: Institutionalizing Coastal Governance and Equitable Resource Access for Mangrove Park Development in Makato, Aklan

Brenda A. Rioja; Therese Jean A. Sarabia

doi:10.55927/eajmr.v5i6.169

Authors

Brenda A. Rioja Aklan State University
Therese Jean A. Sarabia Aklan State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/eajmr.v5i6.169

Keywords:

Stakeholder engagement, participatory governance, mangrove conservation, local environmental governance, policy and planning strategies

Abstract

This study examined stakeholder engagement as a mechanism to enhance green-space governance in the proposed Makato Mangrove Park in Makato, Aklan, Philippines. Employing a participatory qualitative case study design with a single-case, multiple-site approach, the research analyzed semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with forty-three stakeholders conducted from November 15–25, 2025. Findings showed strong potential for community stewardship constrained by episodic participation, regulation gaps, and institutional fragmentation. Two evidence-based policy instruments were developed: the Action Plan for Sustainable Mangrove and River Governance for Makato Coastal Barangays and the Policy and Planning Strategies for Sustainable Mangrove and River Governance. These instruments are intended to strengthen participatory mangrove governance, equitable resource access, and sustainable coastal planning.

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