Protecting Reefs While Growing Tourism
BACOLOD - The partnership covers St. John Reef in Barangay San Juan and Camotes Reef in Barangay Ermita, both marine protected areas within the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape. These sites can play an important role in preserving marine life while also giving visitors opportunities to experience the underwater environment through responsible tourism. The city sees the development of its dive sites as a way to attract scuba divers and environmental advocates without losing sight of the need to protect the ecosystems that make the island attractive in the first place.
More Eyes on the Island's Waters
The Adopt-a-MPA project brings several agencies and communities into the same effort. Coordinated patrols and monitoring, law enforcement support, technical assistance, information campaigns, pollution response, coastal cleanups, and mangrove rehabilitation are among the activities included in the agreement. Bringing these efforts together can provide stronger protection for the reefs while giving coastal communities a more active role in caring for their surrounding waters.
A Healthier Sea Can Mean a Stronger Community
Marine protection is not only about preserving beautiful dive sites. Healthy coastal ecosystems can support marine life, contribute to the character of coastal communities, and create opportunities for sustainable tourism. With government agencies, barangays, and local partners working together, Sipaway Island is showing how environmental protection and local economic opportunities can move in the same direction. Protecting the sea today helps keep the island's natural attractions alive for the divers, residents, families, and future visitors who will experience Sipaway in the years ahead.
