The world’s vast ocean, the Earth’s life support system is facing a critical global crisis due to the loss of biodiversity, marine pollution, and climate change. At the COP28, significant strides were made in linking biodiversity conservation with climate action, emphasizing the indispensable role of the ocean, that indeed, there can be no Paris [Agreement] without it. With the ongoing global emergency, we need to match this vision with calibrated and collaborative action to ensure we have an impact.

One of the strategies is putting forward in place science-based and equitable measures such as marine protected areas, recognitions such as Mission Blue’s Hope Spots, amplify the need for evidence-informed and whole-of-society approach in protecting our seas. Primarily the biodiverse resilient and ecologically-important areas such as the Verde Island Passage, which is one of our main topics today.

As a small country but a large ocean nation, it’s with great honor and pride that we gathered here today to discuss one of our treasures that is considered the center of the center of marine shore fish biodiversity that is the Verde Island Passage.

The body of water located at the Southern part of Luzon Island and bordered by five provinces is known to house over sixty percent of known shore fish species, 338 coral species (eight of which are considered rare), several endangered and threatened species such as the critically endangered Hawksbill sea turtles and thousands of other marine organisms including fantastic nudibranchs.

The Verde Island Passage is also renowned for its mangrove forests and seagrass beds, which are part of our blue carbon ecosystems, contributing about ten percent of the national carbon stock, as reported by Conservation International Philippines.

This marine corridor holds immense local, national, regional, and global importance due to its vast expanse and diverse uses. Beyond its rich biodiversity, the VIP supports fishing communities, economic activities including passenger and goods transport, as well as critical industrial applications such as for energy and telecommunications.

Given its immense value, it is imperative to place the VIP under a stringent protection and conservation measures to enhance and preserve its true value for future generations.

To help us better appreciate the life below water of these remarkable area, may I direct you attention to a very short audio-visual presentation that is prepared for us by a colleague, Mr. Boogs Rosales who is an award-winning filmmaker and underwater cinematographer.