BACOLOD City – An organization advocating marine life preservation urged youth leaders
to join causes that underscore protection and restoration of the Philippine seas.
Oceana Philippines External and Government Relations director Marlito Guidote encouraged participants of the 4th Campus Integrity Crusaders Congress and Leadership Training to advocate marine life protection held in Escalante City, Negros Occidental.
“I’m sure pagdating sa kolehiyo, you will encounter many organizations that are not only based in your school. We recommend that you consider joining these registered and legitimate organizations,” Guidote said.
Guidote advised student leaders to educate themselves on the different issues on coastal ecosystem, citing bottom trawl operations as detrimental to seabed ecosystems and habitats.
He noted the bottom trawling is banned from operating within 15 kilometers from the coastline.
The participants were also reminded to use reef-safe sunscreen when swimming as most of the sunscreens contain substances that are destructive to corals.
“Bleaching means the death of a coral and it takes almost 25 to 50 years for some species of corals para mag re-colorized at muling mabuhay,” Guidote said.
Established in 2014, Oceana Philippines closely coordinates with the government, private and academe sectors, civil society, and fisher folks to promote science-based policies to guarantee sustainable fisheries and marine ecosystems. (With a report from PIA/PN)
