ILOILO City – Amid intensifying threats to marine ecosystems, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 6 is urging the public to protect the country’s oceans, as part of the ongoing observance of May as the Month of the Ocean.
Through a robust information campaign led by DENR Western Visayas and amplified on social media platforms, the agency is calling on individuals, communities, and sectors to reduce plastic use, support responsible fishing, and advocate for marine conservation.
The regional campaign is anchored on this year’s national theme: “Unlock Ocean-Based Solutions to Climate Change: Karagatan ang Solusyon.”
“The ocean is the lifeblood of our planet, yet it faces mounting dangers from pollution, overfishing, and climate change,” said DENR Region 6 officer-in-charge Regional Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla. “Every small action counts when it comes to conserving our blue planet.”
DENR-6 emphasized that despite being surrounded by waters and located in the heart of the Coral Triangle — recognized globally as the center of marine biodiversity — the Philippines is facing an alarming marine crisis.
Unsustainable fishing practices and rampant plastic waste are depleting fish stocks and destroying fragile marine habitats. Climate change is compounding these challenges, putting at risk not just marine life, but also the livelihoods of coastal communities.
The agency is promoting five key steps for ocean protection:
1. Reduce plastic use – opt for reusable bags and containers;
2. Fish responsibly – follow catch size limits and avoid destructive fishing methods;
3. Support Marine Protected Areas – back policies that safeguard habitats and biodiversity;
4. Join conservation efforts – participate in clean-ups and community-based programs;
5. Raise awareness – educate others on marine protection and sustainable practices.
“Oceans regulate our climate, supply oxygen, and support life—from microscopic plankton to the largest whales,” the agency stated. “Protecting marine ecosystems is vital to sustaining this delicate balance and ensuring the survival of countless species.”
Presidential Proclamation No. 57, issued in 1999, declared May as Month of the Ocean, while Proclamation No. 75 tasks the DENR and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to lead activities in partnership with various stakeholders to underscore the importance of coastal and marine conservation.
“Together, we can ensure that our oceans remain vibrant and resilient,” the agency said. “Let’s commit to being responsible stewards of our oceans and work towards a sustainable future.”/PN