Upcoming workshops in the Philippines
The Philippines are characterized by contrarieties. Remote areas with native rainforest, simple ways of life and rudimentary infrastructure are opposed by highly developed areas with skyscrapers, a western life style and international business. The Philippines are a fast growing country, both regarding population as well as industry. Tourism provides livelihood for many people. The need for sustainable tourism is imminent to preserve natural resources for future generations.
Located in the coral triangle, the Philippines have one of the highest biodiversity―not only at their coral reefs. Seaweed meadows, mangroves and estuarine ecosystems flourish along the coast as well. Nevertheless, the Philippine archipelago faces many threats to its natural heritage. Ruthless overfishing and destructive fishing methods affect ecosystems along the coasts. Habitat loss and pollution by coastal development and untreated waste waters are common.
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We partner on-site with the Xavier University Mckeough Marine Center at Jasaan, a relatively new marine science station for research and social development led by Hilly Roa-Quiaoit. She is a senior scientist, experienced in marine ecology, socio-economics and conservation programs. The station is famous for its giant clam nursery.
Starting with a one-day conference, we bring together scientists and officials as well as students and local authorities. The following four days a WS will be held addressing coral reproduction, restoration and conservation.
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The Steinhart Aquarium (USA) under the lead of Bart Shepherd is a long-term SECORE partner. Bart has traveled the Philippines for many years―the aquarium features an extensive and divers Philippine coral reef exhibit―and Bart and his staff are our main partner for the Anilao WS.
We launch a Citizen Science Program addressing mainly the diving and resort community. By participating in the program people get the chance to be citizen scientists recording spawning times of corals using INaturalist. Our host is the Anilao Beach Club.
Further we are partners with Ohmaha's Henry Doorly Zoo, a likewise long-term SECORE supporter, the aquarium run by Mitch Carl.
With the two WS we aim at establishing a long-term project for coral reef conservation with focus on restoration using sexually generated corals, and integrating scientists and national stakeholders in the Philippines, as well as public aquarium professionals from abroad.
Photos © Bart Shepherd, Rex Samuel Aanton Abao Jr
