TACLOBAN CITY – Stakeholders from various sectors are calling on the Senate to prioritize the passage of a bill designating Panaon Island in Southern Leyte as a protected seascape under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act, Republic Act 11038.
Renowned for its thriving coral reefs, whale shark habitats, and critical role in local livelihoods, Panaon Island is a symbol of sustainable marine tourism and biodiversity. However, mounting threats from illegal fishing, pollution, climate change, and crown-of-thorns starfish infestations have prompted urgent calls for legislative action.
In a statement on Monday, December 2, marine conservation group Oceana stressed the importance of Senate approval, aligning it with the Philippines’ commitment to the global “30×30” conservation goal: protecting 30% of terrestrial and marine areas by 2030.
“The immediate approval of this bill is crucial for the sustainable management and long-term protection of Panaon Island,” said Gloria Estenzo Ramos, vice president of Oceana. “It empowers local communities, strengthens governance, and ensures collaboration among national and local agencies for effective stewardship of this vital area.”
Panaon Island boasts over 60% coral cover—far above the national average of 20%—and is home to endangered species like the Philippine duck and sea turtles. It is also a key stopover for whale sharks, driving eco-tourism and supporting local livelihoods.
“Protecting Panaon Island means protecting our livelihood,” said Raul Cordova, barangay chairman of Son-ok in Pintuyan. “This legislation will ensure we can continue to benefit from these resources without jeopardizing them.”
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has highlighted Panaon’s coral reefs as part of the global “50 Reefs” initiative, which focuses on preserving reefs with high resilience against climate change.
Assistant Regional Director Jam Colas-Villaber of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) emphasized the ecological and generational impact of the proposed measure. “Declaring Panaon Island as a protected seascape is a crucial step to preserve its unique marine biodiversity for future generations,” she said.
Tourism officials also underlined the economic value of protection, with Department of Tourism Assistant Regional Director Boris Pascubillo calling Panaon “a true gem among the Philippines’ dive spots” and stressing the need to balance tourism and conservation.
The House of Representatives has already approved the measure under House Bill 9396 on November 29, 2023, with House Speaker Martin Romualdez as one of the authors.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
