“The primary purpose of this book is to transmit complex information about Filipino mangroves to Filipino youth,” Cortez told the Varsitarian. At the center of the book is Atia, a young girl trying to care for mangrove seedlings that mysteriously begin to cry. Cortez said the story introduces one of the most persistent problems in mangrove conservation: incorrect planting. Even before publishing the workbook, she has been using art to communicate mangrove science. Cortez serves as science communication lead of Mangroves Matters PH, a youth-led organization that promotes mangrove conservation through science communication, education, policy engagement and community-based advocacy.