SAN ISIDRO, Leyte — To ensure the health and long-term sustainability of local marine ecosystems, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) conducted an extensive underwater biophysical assessment across the coastal waters of San Isidro, Leyte, from August 24 to 28, 2026.
Protecting Coastal and Marine Ecosystems
The five-day monitoring operation focused primarily on established and proposed Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) across the municipality:
Resource Monitoring: Marine experts evaluated coral health, fish population densities, and overall habitat conditions within the local waters.
Data-Driven Conservation: Findings from the biophysical assessment will provide baseline data to assist local government units and fisheries management bodies in updating conservation strategies.
Sustaining Livelihoods: Maintaining healthy MPAs plays a critical role in supporting local biodiversity and protecting fish stocks for small-scale coastal fishing communities.
Strengthening Local Environmental Governance
By evaluating both active and prospective MPAs, BFAR aims to reinforce sustainable resource management protocols in San Isidro, balancing marine conservation with coastal economic stability.
