The Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) held a musical event dubbed “Ocean Jam” to cap off the nationwide celebration of the Month of the Ocean.

Ocean Jam, which aimed to entertain as well as educate and inspire action toward ocean conservation and sustainability, featured band performances and audio-visual presentations from the BMB, United Nations Ocean Decade, Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), and other development partners.

The musical event was held at the Sawangan Park in Legazpi City, Albay province on May 31, 2023.

This year’s theme, “Sustainably feed the global population,” underscores the critical role of the oceans in ensuring food security for the global population. The theme is aligned with the message of the United Nations Decade of Science for Sustainable Development: “The science we need for the ocean we want.”

“It is our sincere hope that through this activity, we can empower and encourage every individual present to make a positive difference in their daily lives,” DENR Assistant Secretary and BMB Director Marcial Amaro Jr. said, adding that the event celebrates “not only the breathtaking beauty of our oceans but also the paramount role they play in sustaining life on our planet.”

“By reducing unsustainable products, supporting sustainable fishing practices, and advocating for policies that protect our oceans, each and every one of us can contribute to the conservation of our marine environments,” Amaro said.

Amaro said that by working in collaboration with various sectors, “we aim to raise awareness and emphasize the importance of safeguarding our marine ecosystems for future generations.”

Winners of the DENR Region V Quiz Bee were also announced during the event. Cris Ann Villarante of CENRO San Jacinto, Masbate was declared champion, while Jerome Baloloy of PENRO Albay and Monique Grazielle Joy Leaño of PENRO Sorsogon were named second and third placers, respectively.

The Month of the Ocean is celebrated annually during the month of May by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 57, issued in 1998. Under the Proclamation, the DENR and the DA-BFAR shall spearhead the observance of the Month of the Ocean through the conduct of activities that highlight conservation, protection and sustainable management of Philippine coastal and ocean resources. #