The Employees’ Compensation Commission regional Extension Unit 9 (ECC-REU9) recently joined the Department of Labor and Employment 9, the Occupational Safety and Heath Network-9 (OSHNET9) and other government agencies in the celebration of the “2012 World Day for Safety and Health at Work” in Zamboanga City.

The event aims to promote national awareness and appreciation on the importance of occupational safety and health.  It also endeavors to elicit cooperation and support of the workers, employers, professional groups, as well as the public in general in upgrading the quality of life in the workplace.

The celebration was highlighted by mangrove planting at Sta. Cruz Island, Sta. Barbara, Zamboanga City. The attendees were assisted by the Philippine navy. The City Environment and Natural Resources Office representative oriented the participants on the proper way of planting the mangroves.

The group planted a total of 200 propagules (mangroves), each of which is expected to house approximately one ton of fish after three years. These will also serve as a natural defense mechanism against possible tsunami waves and natural calamities.

A covenant signing concluded the celebration wherein the signatories committed to promote a greener mother earth and safer coastal area for the City of Zamboanga.