Manila: An international marine conservation group has expressed approval of the newly signed Panaon Island Protected Seascape (PIPS) Law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The law aims to enhance marine conservation, food and livelihood security, and climate resilience.
According to Philippines News Agency, Oceana stated that the law will draw national attention to Panaon Island, which is identified as one of the 50 priority reefs worldwide with a high likelihood of surviving the adverse impacts of climate change. Oceana Vice President Von Hernandez noted that the PIPS Law is the result of extensive scientific research, advocacy, local organizing, and community involvement. He emphasized that the legislation is a significant step in defending marine biodiversity, improving food security, and combating poverty.
President Marcos approved the PIPS Law on August 29, officially designating the island as a 61,204-hectare marine sanctuary. The sanctuary encompasses the towns of Liloan, San Francisco, Pintuyan, and San Ricardo in Southern Leyte.
The island is a habitat for endangered species such as whale sharks and the Philippine duck. It also serves as a vital breeding and nursery area for fish, supporting the local communities' food and livelihood needs, as noted by Oceana. Hernandez highlighted that the law's implementation is a strategic move toward climate resilience. Studies show that Panaon Island's coral reefs have 60 percent excellent coral cover, significantly higher than the national average of 20 percent.
Hernandez further stated that the law strengthens the Philippines' efforts to achieve global biodiversity goals and develop a resilient blue economy. The new legislation requires the creation of a comprehensive management plan involving local stakeholders, scientists, and government agencies to ensure that conservation efforts yield real benefits.
Southern Leyte 1st district Rep. Roger Mercado expressed his commitment to prioritizing environmental protection, highlighting the importance of integrating tourism with environmental conservation. He emphasized that taking care of the environment should be a shared responsibility.
Panaon's coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrasses act as natural barriers, protecting coastlines from storm surges and flooding, while also storing significant amounts of blue carbon. These ecosystems sequester carbon more efficiently than terrestrial forests, playing an essential role in mitigating climate change and supporting national commitments to the global blue carbon agenda, as stated by Oceana.
