The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 9 (DENR R9), headed by In-Charge. Office of the Regional Executive Director Ronald D. Gadot, together with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Piñan headed by Dr. Adelaida R. Borja, celebrated the Month of the Ocean with a weeklong activity in Aliguay Island Protected Landscape and Seascape (AIPLS) on May 2-5, 2023.

The activity aims to promote the conservation and preservation of the ocean and its resources. Various activities such as the opening program, the unveiling of the Flagship Species statue, coastal clean-up, SCUBasurero (diving while picking up ocean trash), Communication, Education and Public Awareness (CEPA) with the community, and seagrass assessment were conducted during the weeklong celebration.

The opening program started with a message from RED Ronald D. Gadot, emphasizing the importance of the Month of the Ocean and the role of DENR in protecting and conserving our ocean resources. This was followed by the unveiling of the Flagship Species statue, which symbolizes the DENR's commitment to protect and conserve endangered species found on the island.

On the following day, coastal clean-up and SCUBasurero activities were held simultaneously. Volunteers cleaned up the island’s coastline and underwater while picking up ocean trash. These activities aimed to reduce ocean pollution and promote a cleaner environment for marine creatures.

After which, the CEPA campaign engaged the community in learning the importance of the ocean and the impact of human activities on its resources. It also emphasized the importance of community involvement in preserving the environment.

To conclude the weeklong celebration, a seagrass assessment was conducted to determine the condition of seagrass on the island. The assessment helps the Office develop strategies for the protection and conservation of seagrass in the area.

 The activity was a success with the active participation of DENR R9 employees and the community. The Office hopes that this weeklong activity will raise awareness on the importance of the ocean and its resources and encourage the community to work together to protect and conserve them.

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Parent Category: News & Events
Category: Press Releases
Published: 23 May 2023