 Results from recent oceanographic and larval dispersal studies have provided some evidence of the strong ecological connectivity between the Cagayan Ridge corridor and the eastern coast of Palawan all the way to the Balabac Strait. While the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP) remains to be a top priority area for onservation, the protection and improved management of other critical reef areas in the Sulu Sea including Cagayancillio, Hinobaan, Negros Occidental, Cuyo Island Group, Green Island, Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa Bay, and Balabac are necessary to ensure the survival of Sulu-Sulawesi Seascape.
The strong current flows during the transition period of the Northeast monsoon (October to November) favors the exchange of larvae between Cagayancillo, Cawili-Arena, and Tubbataha Reefs, as well as the dispersal of eggs and larvae from northern sources such as the vicinity of Cuyo Shelf southwards along the east coast of Palawan. - The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park remains to be one of the areas with highest reef fish biomass, abundance and diversity in the Philippines. It hosts large predators and endangered species such as marine turtles and sea birds, and numerous commercially targeted fish species. Tubbataha shows indications of good recovery and resilience to natural disturbances most likely due to its reduced human impacts and effective protection. The adjacent reef systems of Cagayancillo were also relatively less stressed compared to those of Verde Island Passage and Balabac Strait.
- For Cagayancillo, research results indicate that expansion of no-take marine protected areas in four areas with important habitats and great potential for recruitment of fish and corals could contribute to recovery of fish stocks. The management plans for these MPAs will be finalized and implemented by the municipality.
- A marine turtle and dugong habitat assessment survey conducted in 2007 indicated that the Cagayan Ridge is a critical habitat for two marine turtle species (green turtle and hawksbill turtle). Apparent threats to the species are egg collection and directed hunting for local consumption, as well as destructive fishing practices (i.e. dynamite fishing).
- Seabird surveys have been completed and suggest that seabird population trends in Cagayan Ridge are alarming. Priority sites for seabird conservation are Tubbataha Reefs, Bancauan Island, Bancoran Island, Basterra Reef and Cawili Island. Tubbataha Management Office staff and volunteers have now banded more than 1,644 birds while efforts to conserve threatened species in the corridor included training in marine mammal and sea turtle rescue for 31 participants from 19 offices and three municipalities.
- From 2006-2008, Conservation International supported marine park ranger patrols in the Tubbataha Reefs. Park rangers have conducted a total of 138 patrols covering 6,000 nautical miles and 528 hours – a dramatic increase from previous records before CI’s involvement.
This increase in ranger patrols resulted in identifying 27 illegal fishing boats with 148 illegal fishers arrested. A total of 48 cases were filed against the arrested individuals.
- Production and restoration cost estimates on boat grounding in TRNP suggest that violations will be charged a penalty of P12,000 (approximately US$300) per square meter of coral reef damaged.
 Results of studies on the extent of incidental and directed take of marine threatened species in this area of the Sulu Sea indicate that municipal fishermen use three main types of fishing gear: gillnets, simple hook and line, and spear guns. Directed catch of cetaceans and marine turtles was practiced in the past, but has reportedly been discontinued. Evidence suggests that poaching of turtles still occurs.
- Information and educational activities to increase local support for marine conservation and management, targeting local communities, and local government unit officials were also undertaken to support existing conservation science efforts.
CI and partners will work towards consolidating a Marine Protected Area network including 97,000 hectares of No Take Zones that protect at least 20 percent of the critical habitats (coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves) in the Cagayan Ridge Marine Biodiversity Conservation Corridor. Strengthening the management capabilities of the local stakeholders in Cagayancillo and other local governments involved in TRNP, as well as enforcement of fisheries regulations, and training on proper law enforcement and prosecution of offenders will be undertaken. Previous |
Conservation Corridors 
