Eighty red mangrove propagules were planted to replace dead mangrove trees at the back of Buaya Elementary School in Lapu-Lapu City on December 6, 2023 in line with a simultaneous tree-growing activity of the Department of Education.

The school chose the red mangrove variety (Rhizophora mangie) for its prop roots or adventitious roots that make the trees walk seemingly on water, in arches, making the  mangrove forest more beneficial when padding the impact of wave action.

The activity was participated by 20 Grade-6 pupils, 10 teachers, and 12 school staff members, as well as officers of the Parents-Teachers Association.

The mangrove forest at the back of the school has protected the area from previous storm surges.

Though Super Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai) in 2021 destroyed the roofing of school buildings, but the perimeter fence stayed intact because of the patches of mangrove thickets.

However, the mature trees have died slowly, needing a replacement. 

The tree-growing event seeks to restore the area's coastal forest, according to Dr. Analyn Malingin, principal of Buaya Elementary School.