Saving SHARKS
But there’s good news for sharks as we end 2018. A group called Save Sharks Network is fighting to protect sharks in the country. The Shark, Ray, and Chimaera Conservation Act was passed in the lower house last September and aims to protect not just the country’s 95 shark species, but all local species of sharks, rays, and chimaeras.
Save Sharks Network is comprised of environmental nonprofits like Greenpeace Philippines, Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines, and Save Philippine Seas, and is supported by Best Alternatives and other shark-loving groups.
“Greenpeace is happy to announce that all efforts to conserve and sustainably utilize sharks and rays is moving. Our bill breezed through the lower house. It is important for the Senate to ensure that the bill is made into law before session’s end this year,” says Greenpeace Oceans Campaigner Vince Cinches. “With new species being discovered, humans must play a crucial part for the future of sharks. The government, nonprofits, businesses, and individuals are key. We urge readers to talk to their representatives, particularly in the Senate, and to sign our online petition to finally pass the Shark, Ray, and Chimaera Conservation Act.”