In a statement, the DENR also said that distinguished oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle joined this initiative, marking her first visit to the Philippines, invited by Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga.
During her visit, Dr. Earle went on a diving expedition in Verde Island Passage, known as the "center of the world’s marine shore fish biodiversity.”
The National Geographic’s explorer in residence and Mission Blue founder emphasized the urgent need for conservation efforts amid increasing environmental threats.
Her engagement coincided with the Philippines' Environment Month, highlighting the significance of preserving marine ecosystems.
Key stakeholders included Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Metro Pacific Investments Corp., San Miguel Corp., First Gen Corp., and Ten Knots Group. These companies, alongside environmental non-government organizations and academic institutions, have committed to a collaborative approach for the VIP's conservation.
Dr. Earle stressed the importance of integrating biodiversity conservation with climate action, noting the indispensable role of oceans in global climate goals.
Sec. Loyzaga echoed this, advocating for science-based and equitable measures such as creating marine protected areas.
The DENR, with congressional funding, plans to expand marine research and monitoring, establishing new scientific stations across the country to further protect marine biodiversity and support sustainable development in the Verde Island Passage.
Verde Island Passage is a strait located in the southern part of Luzon, bordered by Batangas, Marinduque, Romblon, and Oriental and Occidental Mindoro provinces. It is known to house over 60% of known shore fish species, 338 coral species (eight of which are considered rare), several endangered and threatened, and thousands of other marine organisms.
