Illegal fishing and poaching from both local and foreign commercial fishers are major threats to the biodiversity of Cagayan Ridge, particularly Tubbataha Reefs. For many years, the remoteness of this rich biological wonder protected it against such activities. However, fishermen from outlying islands and nearby Asian countries have found their way to Tubbataha. Due to limited personnel and meager resources in managing this area, it is difficult to protect habitats (such as coral reefs) and species (such as seabirds, marine turtles and marine mammals) against intruders. Current government funding, tourist fees, and fines collected from environmental crimes such as damage to corals and wildlife from boat grounding and the dropping of anchors are not enough to cover park management needs.
Directed takes of cetaceans were found to be prevalent along the Cagayan Ridge. Cetacean meat is used as bait for the shark and nautilus fisheries. Incidences of by-catch of dolphins in the purse seine fishing industry were also reported in the southern part of the ridge. Previous | Next |