Mangrove habitats are essential for maintaining biodiversity, protecting coastlines, and sequestering carbon, yet they are nevertheless subject to deterioration from human activity and natural disturbances. This study assessed the current ecological status and rehabilitation progress of the rehabilitated mangrove forest in Sitio Fuentes, Barangay Maria Cristina, Iligan City, Philippines. Monthly field assessments were conducted from March to December 2023 during spring low tides using ten 50-meter transect lines with systematically placed plots. Species identification and structural measurements were performed to evaluate species composition, density, and importance value. A total of 218 mangrove individuals were recorded, belonging to one family, one genus, and two species — Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophora mucronata. Results revealed that R. apiculata was the dominant species, reflecting the typical composition of rehabilitated mangrove areas in the Philippines. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H’ = 0.68) indicated low species diversity, while the high density of seedlings and saplings (0.87 individuals m-²) suggested active regeneration and favorable recruitment conditions. However, the dominance of a single genus implies limited ecological resilience and restricted habitat complexity. The findings classify the mangrove area as having low biodiversity but with strong potential for recovery. Continuous monitoring and the inclusion of more diverse native species are recommended to enhance ecological balance, ensure long-term sustainability, and strengthen the mangrove’s protective and productive functions.
