LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) — Officials and representatives from local government units (LGUs) in Ilocos Norte convened recently at the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) to further cement their action plans for the conservation and protection of the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Dubbed “Bayanihang Adhikain, Bayaning Aksiyon para sa Kanlurang Dagat ng Pilipinas,” the provincial caravan organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and partner agencies seeks a collective effort to protect and sustainably manage the WPS, which is part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
Initially crafted during the National Summit held in August 2023, the action plans aim to ensure food security and foster inclusive economic growth for the nation.
For Ilocos Norte, the activities under action plans are: a) conducting communication, education, and public awareness; b) strict implementation and enforcement of fishery laws; c) strengthening and capacitating fish wardens and deployment of fish wardens or bantay dagat; d) updating and enactment of fishery code in the provincial and municipal levels; e) establishment of fry banks and nursery and upgrading of provincial fish farms; f) river dredging and quarry; g) employment of climate resilient technologies such as aqua shade, floating fish cage, and modular pond production; h) and providing faster sea vessels for patrolling and apprehension.
One of the agencies that presented its national action plan is the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 1.
One of BFAR’s commitments of support is the continuing implementation of livelihood activities to enhance fisheries yields and economic gains from the West Philippine Sea.
This program aims to spark hope for the fisherfolk by improving the living conditions of the fishing communities facing the WPS, unlocking the potentials of the rich fishing ground, and stirring livelihood opportunities.
As one of the WPS caravan hosts, MMSU President Shirley Agrupis states the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
“We have developed our strategies to protect our coastline, including the initiation of coastal engineering research and the enhancement of coastal erosion maps,” said Agrupis.
She urged the participants to sustain crucial efforts as stated in the action plans.
In his keynote message, DILG Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. emphasized the important role of LGUs in promoting coastal management and environmental law enforcement.
“Our action plans developed during the national summit for the WPS reflect the voices and aspirations of over 500 participants from various sectors,” said Abalos in his speech read by Serafin Barretto Jr., DILG undersecretary for public safety.
During the caravan, the National Security Policy 2023-2028, which serves as a strategic framework and guide in addressing the country’s challenges on security, sovereignty, and national interests, was presented.
“Although Batac City is not a coastal LGU, very supportive kami sa lahat ng plano at policy of the National Security Council with regard to West Philippine Sea. Sa League of Cities, may mga resolutions of support for any legislation on any part from the Senate and Congress for the West Philippine Sea,” said Batac City Mayor Albert Chua in a media interview.
(We are very supportive of all plans and policies of the National Security Council regarding the West Philippine Sea. In the League of Cities, there are resolutions of support for any legislation from the Senate and Congress concerning the West Philippine Sea.)
Meanwhile, Barretto and Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos led the signing of the commitment wall for stronger efforts of national agencies and private sectors to protect the WPS.
The event was also supported by Tanggol Kalikasan’s project “Restoring the Resources for Economic Sustainability of the West Philippine Sea (RESTORE-WPS)” under the program of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Gerry Roxas Foundation. (AMB/MJTAB/MAB/PIA Ilocos Norte)
