PH to submit resolution on protection of migratory species to int’l body

The Philippines has formally submitted to the Secretariat of the United Nations-led Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) a draft resolution, calling over 120 nations to enhance their efforts in protecting migratory species.

The resolution, particularly on the conservation and promotion of the sustainable use of intertidal wetlands and other coastal habitats that are important to migratory species, will be put to a vote when parties to the CMS will in Manila from Octover 23-28 for the 12th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the CMS (COP12).

Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) Director Theresa Mundita Lim expressed hope that the CMS meeting will strengthen the country’s linkages with other nations in protecting migratory species.

"Since the Philippines is not a large or rich country, it is important that we form an alliance with other nations to protect migratory species," Lim said.

In the draft resolution, the Philippines also urged other nations to stop further approval of intertidal flat conversion until a full assessment of the economics of ecological services and identification needs for migratory species and other biodiversity can be completed.

Intertidal wetlands and other coastal and estuarine habitats are critically important not only to migratory birds but also to cetacieans, dugongs, turtles and fish as areas for breeding, for staging during migration, moulting, or during other non-breeding periods.

The resolution also seeks to strengthen the relevant multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) concerning the coasts and wetlands, including the funding of scientific subsidiary bodies under MEAs.

Likewise, it looks forward to the adequate coverage of coastal and intertidal flats in protected area systems to reduce the loss of these migratory species habitats.

It also aims to recognize and promote these protected areas that shall demonstrate effective management of ecosystems vital to the survival of migratory species, and linked to community livelihoods and human well-being.

Also included in the resolution are initiatives and programs aimed at raising public awareness on the importance of intertidal wetlands and other associated habitats to people.

With the Philippines hosting the world’s largest wildlife conference this year, Lim is hopeful that more Filipinos will become aware about protecting the diverse migratory species that pass through the country.

"Most of the people are not aware of the importance of these migratory species to them. This event is a good opportunity to highlight this," Lim said.

She pointed out that the outcome of the event is expected to influence the legislative agenda of the CMS parties in protecting the migratory species through laws to be passed by each country.