A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening the protection and management of marine protected areas (MPAs) in Sipaway Island was officially signed at the SCC Multi-Purpose Hall in Park Marina on Tuesday, October 27.
The agreement brings together key local government and national agency leaders to safeguard fragile marine habitats, with signatories including San Carlos City Mayor Renato Y. Gustilo, Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group Deputy Director for Administration PCol. Rhoderick B. Campo, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Negros Island Region (NIR) Regional Executive Director Charlie E. Fabre, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-NIR representative Rickie Marx Ronamo, Barangay Ermita Punong Barangay Valentina R. Fuerzas, and Barangay San Juan Punong Barangay Simplicio P. Caballero.
The agreement outlines joint efforts to safeguard two key marine sanctuaries within the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS): St. John Reef in Barangay San Juan and Camotes Reef in Barangay Ermita.
To ensure long-term preservation, the signatories committed to coordinated patrols and monitoring, law enforcement support, technical assistance and capacity-building, public information and education campaigns, pollution response, information-sharing, coastal cleanups, and mangrove rehabilitation.
Gustilo emphasized that the partnership is vital to preserving Sipaway Island’s natural marine resources while developing the city’s dive sites into premier destinations for scuba divers and environmental advocates.
He noted that the joint effort will protect fragile underwater ecosystems while opening up new opportunities for sustainable tourism and local economic growth.
Fabre highlighted the importance of science-based monitoring, stronger law enforcement, information campaigns, and community participation. He added that this collaborative initiative could serve as a leading model for joint marine resource protection across the entire Negros Island Region.*
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