Results of study on Central Visayas coral reefs released
August 11, 2003
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has bared results of a study conducted on the state of coral reefs in Central Visayas.
The study was conducted last April 11-30 by DENR through its Coastal Resource Management Project, Earthwatch Institute, the Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation, Inc. and expedition volunteers. It was supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Among the areas assessed were the fish sanctuaries of Panglao, Bohol namely Bolod with 5.42 hectares; Tawala that covers 3.18 hectares established in 1998; Danao with 8.07 hectares also established in 1998; Doljo with 7.71 hectares; Bil-isan with 7.75 hectares, and Balicasag. In Baclayon, Bohol is Pamilacan Island Fish Sanctuary with 11.9 hectares; and Tulapos Marine Sanctuary in Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor. Other areas include the San Isidro Marine Sanctuary in Dauis, Bohol.
One of the important findings of the study is the growing interest to put up marine sanctuaries, which has come to be regarded as an effective way to protect coral reefs.
Other significant findings include a generally stable and slightly improved condition in marine protected areas (MPAs). The Pamilacan Island Fish Sanctuary received the highest rating for its sustained and improved enforcement.
The study noted that signs of destructive fishing have decreased and areas within and outside the sanctuaries appear to be relatively intact. An abundance of target species such as surgeonfish, rabbitfish, snappers, parrotfish, was noted, particularly within the sanctuaries.
Trends show ‘an increase in species richness for all reef species’ since 1999. This includes coral cover, which is generally higher within the sanctuaries.
Another trend cited in the study is the increasing use of reefs and sanctuaries for recreation and tourism.
The study recommends improved vigilance in enforcing boundaries, increasing the size of sanctuaries that are less than 8 hectares, and controlling human activities within and outside the sanctuary. Although generally considered an incentive for managing reefs, increased tourism activities in sanctuary areas must be closely monitored, the study said. It noted corals face a threat from tourism-related activities, such as reckless anchoring, boat landings, inexperienced divers, construction on shorelines, and improper waste disposal.
August 11, 2003
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has bared results of a study conducted on the state of coral reefs in Central Visayas.
The study was conducted last April 11-30 by DENR through its Coastal Resource Management Project, Earthwatch Institute, the Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation, Inc. and expedition volunteers. It was supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Among the areas assessed were the fish sanctuaries of Panglao, Bohol namely Bolod with 5.42 hectares; Tawala that covers 3.18 hectares established in 1998; Danao with 8.07 hectares also established in 1998; Doljo with 7.71 hectares; Bil-isan with 7.75 hectares, and Balicasag. In Baclayon, Bohol is Pamilacan Island Fish Sanctuary with 11.9 hectares; and Tulapos Marine Sanctuary in Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor. Other areas include the San Isidro Marine Sanctuary in Dauis, Bohol.
One of the important findings of the study is the growing interest to put up marine sanctuaries, which has come to be regarded as an effective way to protect coral reefs.
Other significant findings include a generally stable and slightly improved condition in marine protected areas (MPAs). The Pamilacan Island Fish Sanctuary received the highest rating for its sustained and improved enforcement.
The study noted that signs of destructive fishing have decreased and areas within and outside the sanctuaries appear to be relatively intact. An abundance of target species such as surgeonfish, rabbitfish, snappers, parrotfish, was noted, particularly within the sanctuaries.
Trends show ‘an increase in species richness for all reef species’ since 1999. This includes coral cover, which is generally higher within the sanctuaries.
Another trend cited in the study is the increasing use of reefs and sanctuaries for recreation and tourism.
The study recommends improved vigilance in enforcing boundaries, increasing the size of sanctuaries that are less than 8 hectares, and controlling human activities within and outside the sanctuary. Although generally considered an incentive for managing reefs, increased tourism activities in sanctuary areas must be closely monitored, the study said. It noted corals face a threat from tourism-related activities, such as reckless anchoring, boat landings, inexperienced divers, construction on shorelines, and improper waste disposal.
