Chiriquí is home to approximately 25% of the country’s mangroves, a natural heritage of immense ecological and social value.

Today, initiatives like Puerto Barú in David, Chiriquí, pose a threat to these mangroves and to the delicate balance that protects life and the communities that depend on them.

These ecosystems play a crucial role in combating climate change by storing vast amounts of carbon.

Furthermore, marine life thrives among their roots, providing habitats where numerous species grow and ensuring the continuity of our oceans. They also act as a natural defense, helping to mitigate floods, strong winds, and other extreme weather events that impact coastal communities.

On the coast of Chiriquí, mangroves sustain living ecosystems, local economies, and entire generations that depend on artisanal fishing, shellfish harvesting, and ecotourism.

Since 2007, teachers and students have been protecting these mangroves as part of their identity and their future.

📍 Chiriquí has ​​25% of Panama’s mangroves.

📍 In David, Chiriquí, the mangroves have been a protected area since 2007 by Municipal Agreement 021.

📍 There are other sites where port infrastructure can be developed without destroying mangroves. Puerto Barú, in David, Chiriquí, is not strategic.

📍 We already have a historic port: Puerto Armuelles, a symbol and emblem of the province.

🚨Puerto Barú, in David, Chiriquí🚨 A project that threatens mangroves is not progress: it is an environmental, social, and economic risk.

Listening to those who care for the land is key to making responsible decisions.

🛑 Development cannot be built on the destruction of our ecosystems.