US, PHL troops hold 2nd installation of artificial habitat reefs
UNITED States and Philippine military personnel, local government representatives, nongovernment organizations (NGOs) and local residents partnered together for a second time to install artificial habitat reefs in Maragondon, Cavite, last month.
A total of 60 jackstone-type artificial habitat reefs were installed off the coast.
In August, the group also installed 30 artificial habitat reefs in the coastal area of Calatagan, Batangas.
Coral will eventually cover the sunken structure, revitalizing marine life and improving fishing livelihoods in the coastal communities of Cavite.
The project, named “Operation Pamamalakaya,” included support by more than 500 personnel from the Philippine Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, DV Boer Farm, Magsasaka, municipality of Maragondon and Cavite LGU and residents, as well as US service members.
More than 40 military divers and barge crew members from the Philippines Air Force, Armed Forces of the Philippines Special Operations Command (AFP Socom), and United States Armed Forces assisted in the deployment of the artificial habitat reefs.
“[Operation Pamamalakaya] aims to protect, develop, conserve and promote biodiversity in the marine environment for sustainable fisheries in the area, including adjacent fishing grounds,” said Dexter Villamin of DV Boer Farm.
“Currently, Philippine coral reefs are threatened by pollution and destructive fishing techniques like the illegal use of explosives, trawling methods, and general overfishing,” said Maj. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, AFP Socom commander.
To address this reality, Pabayo said there needs to be an international approach between governments and NGOs dedicated to preserving and protecting these coral reefs, “which are a natural treasure. Great events like this with our US partners contribute to supporting not only the environment but also the local economy,”
For his part, Maj. Ryan Bone, a participating United States Armed Forces diver, said: “Marine biodiversity is vital for a sustainable ecosystem. It’s wonderful to be able to assist in an endeavor that helps preserve this environment for generations to come.”
The US, as a longstanding friend, partner and ally of the Philippines, continues to provide support to Filipino communities with marine conservation projects.