Tubbataha Partners with Philippine Navy to raise marine conservation awareness in the Kalayaan Island Group
On 18 January a new law enforcement team composed of personnel from the Philippine Navy and the 12th Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT) of the Philippine Marines is scheduled to leave for the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) in the West Philippines Seas. They will be stationed in KIG for two months as a security presence for this remote area.
Some of the members have served on the composite team of marine park rangers in Tubbataha in the past.
This January 11, 12 and 16, the Philippine Navy held a pre-deployment seminar for the law enforcement team. The goal was to review their functions in the field and improve understanding of marine resource protection.
Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) Information, Education and Communication (IEC) team was invited to provide lectures on basic ecology, marine conservation and the value of biodiversity.
“We are delighted to have another opportunity to partner with the Navy to heighten awareness of marine conservation. Closely linked to our marine ecology is another pressing security issue for the Philippines – food security,” says Angelique Songco, TRNP Superintendant.
Kudos to the heroes of our seas!