FOREIGN and local diving enthusiasts, marine conservation advocates, as well as top underwater photographers came together for the recent 2016 Diving and Resort Travel Show Philippines at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall.
During the 2nd DRT Manila press conference, the Department of Tourism and the delegates were in unison that marine conservation is key.
Invited panelists noted that protection of the Philippines’ 450 coral and 2,500 fish species should be the number one concern, while education among the fisherfolk is likewise crucial.
“We need more Marine Protected Areas and work together with people who need to feed themselves. And it only takes small pockets of marine protected areas for marine life to really thrive,” said top underwater Filipino photographer Scott “Gutsy” Tuason.
“It’s amazing (what can happen) if you just leave a piece of reef alone for even a small amount of time,” added Tuason, who rues the loopholes in the current marine protection framework being implemented.
Author and veteran underwater photographer Tim Rock, also voiced the collective support of the panelists towards Tuason’s claim.
“I think we should go with the MPAs, expand them, and really cultivate them. Education is really important, it can really go a long way,” said Rock.
Other experts also stressed the need for observers to make sure that targeted fisheries aren’t abused, adding that poaching is still a huge problem.
Professional marine photographer Mike Bartick as well as famed director Howard Hall with veteran underwater cinematographer wife Michele, also shared their thoughts on the current situation of Philippine marine biodiversity.
Meanwhile, DOT Undersecretary Kat De Castro told scribes during the opening day of the travel fair that she sees a rise in the diving community here in the Philippines and that they will help in the conservation of the underwater wildlife.
“The Philippines now is becoming an emerging top diving destination, and I am so happy for that because I am a diver myself,” she said.
“I would definitely influence Filipino divers to dive more so that they would appreciate Philippine marine life more and eventually be a part of protecting our marine life,” she added.
DOT Marketing Development Group OIC Verna Buensuceso added that “Recognizing that one of our core products in tourism is diving, the Department of Tourism is continuously developing this dive niche market,” and that preservation of marine life is still a top priority.
“We have non-governmental organizations and marine conservation organizations, because we know that for diving to continue to flourish in the country, we also need to protect the very resources that we are promoting,” she added.