Rooted in Resilience
Marta grew up in a modest family. “My father was a farmer and carpenter, my mother looked after pigs,” she recalls. Her family, firmly grounded in reality, encouraged her to assert herself despite her disability in a world that remains largely inaccessible. “It’s rewarding to accomplish things people think I can’t do,” she smiles. A self-taught activist, she founded her association at the crossroads of disability rights advocacy and the conservation of an ecosystem she holds dear: mangroves.
The Voice of the Mangroves
Mangroves play a crucial role in the fight against climate change. They store up to five times more carbon than tropical forests, protect coastlines from erosion and storms, and support both marine and terrestrial biodiversity. “Mangroves protect our lives by providing a natural barrier against tsunamis,” Marta asserts. Yet these vital ecosystems are now under severe threat.
2000 mangroves planted
“I am convinced that environmental health and human well-being, especially for people with disabilities, are deeply connected.”
Do you know how to plant mangroves?
Driven by her determination, Marta works tirelessly to restore mangrove forests and raise awareness of their essential role. She coordinates mangrove planting projects along the coastal areas of Leyte, working with local fishers to create nurseries and train hundreds of young people in planting and seedling care. The benefits? A restored ecosystem, improved fishing yields, and greater economic stability for local communities.
Land and Sea United
Marta also ensures that her initiatives are accessible to people with disabilities. “I believe inclusion goes hand in hand with environmental protection. Everyone, regardless of ability, can take part in preserving our planet,” she explains. A passionate activist and inspiring leader, she is paving the way for a future where everyone has a role to play in a more resilient world.
Discover the Association
Foundation for These Abled Persons Inc.
