SEA STEWARDSHIP: Shore it Up! volunteers collecting underwater rubbish. —Contributed photos
Our marine biodiversity is not only unique and diverse, but also facing significant threats that are causing the decline of numerous species. Additionally, over 3 billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods, and it also plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change. Therefore, it is imperative that we take collective action to protect and preserve life below water.
One successful approach to conserving marine life is through collaboration between local governments and the private sector. By exchanging knowledge and resources, these two sectors can create impactful and sustainable programs for the long term. One organization that has embraced this approach is Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC), led by tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan (MVP). Through its foundation, Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF), MPIC is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility and has implemented programs that promote marine biodiversity, ecological balance, and ecotourism.
One of MPIF’s environmental initiatives is called Shore It Up! (SIU). This program started as MPIC’s contribution to the annual International Coastal Cleanup and as a response to the devastating effects of Typhoon “Ondoy” in 2009. MPIF took a unique approach to the typical cleanup by involving volunteer divers to clean the seabed of solid waste and implementing community-based educational and livelihood activities to address the issue at its source. Over the years, SIU has evolved into a comprehensive and multi-awarded biodiversity program, implemented not only in Mabini, Batangas but also in other key coastal areas such as Alaminos City, Del Carmen, Medina, Cordova, and Subic Bay.
“Our archipelago is home to incredible biodiversity and requires the active participation of the private sector in preserving and conserving it. At MPIF, we are committed to future-proofing our natural resources and mitigating climate change,” says Melody del Rosario, president of MPIF.
In the past fifteen years, SIU has expanded its operations to twelve locations, mobilizing a staggering number of volunteers, runners, and scuba divers. It has engaged with numerous organizations, local governments, families, and schoolchildren, educating and empowering them to protect and preserve the coastal and aquatic resources. SIU has also contributed to the development of ecotourism by training eco-guides and marine guardians and establishing the Mangrove Propagation and Information Centers in Alaminos, Siargao, and Cordova.
SIU is proud to be involved in protecting and preserving two “Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance” – Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Cagayancillo, Palawan, and Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park in Manila Bay. SIU is currently assisting Del Carmen town in its effort to become a member of the prestigious Ramsar Convention. These initiatives highlight the commitment of SIU to marine biodiversity conservation.
As the flagship program of MPIF, SIU has become an integral part of Gabay Kalikasan, a sustainability program aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. To further strengthen its impact, MPIF has partnered with the University of the Philippines and the UP Marine Science Institute to address marine environmental concerns and promote good governance for the effective management of the country’s natural resources and marine ecosystems.
In celebration of its 15th anniversary, SIU recently organized a multisectoral forum titled “Enlarging our blue footprint for Philippine marine biodiversity conservation.” This event provided an opportunity for government policymakers and stakeholders to discuss collaborative efforts to safeguard Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a world-renowned marine protected area. The forum was attended by esteemed individuals from government, including Sen. Cynthia Villar and Bohol Rep. Edgar Chatto, as well as representatives from MPIF and the private sector.
By combining the efforts of the public and private sectors, initiatives like SIU are making significant contributions to marine biodiversity conservation in the Philippines. With continued collaboration and collective action, we can ensure a sustainable future for our oceans and the countless species that rely on them.
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Omprakash Tiwary is a business writer who delves into the intricacies of the corporate world. With a focus on finance and economic landscape. He offers readers valuable insights into market trends, entrepreneurship, and economic developments.
