THERE IS no shortage of fish in Western Visayas. The region’s supply is sufficient, according to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. But for how long? The region is also supplying fish to other region.
While we have no problem sharing the bounties of the Visayan Sea with other regions, Western Visayas should come up with doable plans to curb exploitative commercial fishing and destructive fishing practices in this crucial body of water that could threaten our supply of fish.
But here’s an even bigger picture: according to the World Wide Fund for Nature-Philippines, a typical square kilometer of healthy coral reef can produce about 30 to 40 metric tons of seafood every year. Thus we should press for increased protection of all our seas, and specifically our coral reef system where fishes breed and grow.
The Philippines is located within the Coral Triangle, home to 76 percent of the world’s coral species and over 2,000 marine species. The destruction of our marine ecosystems will not only lead to the extinction of thousands of species but will also be detrimental to tourism, food supply, and sustenance and livelihood of our fisherfolk.
Let us also not forget that reefs are vital to the continuity of life in the sea. They protect coastlines from wave and storm erosion and function as nurseries and habitats for thousands of marine species. They are ultimately connected to mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and countless other ecosystems. This makes our responsibility over protecting our oceans even greater.
The degradation of our marine ecosystems has long ceased to be merely an environmental issue. It also pushes poverty deeper in the coastal communities through loss of livelihood, vulnerability to natural hazards, hunger and even health problems. We must all work together to make our oceans benefit us in a sustainable manner.
