Bohol — The Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) has further solidified its commitment to environmental stewardship through a successful marine conservation operation at the Bingag Marine Protected Area in Dauis. On June 29, 2026, a collaborative team—led by the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO) and supported by the local government of Dauis, Barangay Bingag, and the Bingag Dapdap Fisherfolk Organization (BIDAFO)—conducted an intensive clean-up and reef preservation activity. The effort brought together divers from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), DENR-CENRO Tagbilaran City, and local fisherfolk to address threats to Bohol's fragile coral reef ecosystems.
Combating the Crown-of-Thorns Threat
The primary focus of the operation was the removal of 121 Crown-of-Thorns (COTs) starfish, a species notorious for preying on live coral tissue. When populations of these starfish reach outbreak levels, they can cause extensive degradation to reef systems, effectively destroying the habitats that sustain local fish populations and tourism. By proactively culling these predators, the team helped protect the biodiversity of the Bingag Marine Protected Area, ensuring that the reef remains a vibrant and healthy environment. This manual removal remains one of the most practical and effective ways to manage COT outbreaks when they are detected early.
Comprehensive Coastal Resource Management
Beyond the extraction of harmful starfish, the "SCUBAsurero" activity tackled the growing issue of marine debris, with divers successfully retrieving a variety of pollutants, including plastic bottles, wrappers, nylon materials, and glass bottles. The team also prioritized habitat enhancement by relocating 12 giant clams (Tridacna gigas) to a more secure area. These clams are vital components of the reef ecosystem, and their relocation supports regular monitoring efforts and community-based ecotourism initiatives. These integrated actions demonstrate Bohol’s holistic approach to preserving its natural heritage as envisioned by Governor Aris Aumentado’s Strategic Governance Roadmap.
Securing the Legacy of a Global Geopark
As the country’s first and only UNESCO Global Geopark, Bohol is setting a standard for how provinces can balance economic progress with environmental conservation. Marine biodiversity is essential for human well-being, food security, and economic prosperity, making such community-driven conservation vital for the long-term viability of the region's tourism and fisheries. These ongoing efforts—ranging from tourism circuit development to active reef protection—reinforce the importance of LGUs working together to ensure Bohol’s natural assets remain protected for future generations. By fostering a culture of shared responsibility among local agencies and fisherfolk, the province continues to prove that sustainable development and environmental integrity go hand in hand.
