 Targeted research conducted in the Verde Island Passage provide the scientific basis for the design of an ecologically functional network of MPAs. Key findings include:
- There are specific municipal clusters that are more “ecologically connected” to form basis for the establishment of MPA networks within the Verde Island Passage. Examples of these are: Lubang Islands (Looc-Lubang municipalities), Calatagan-Lian-Nasugbu-Balayan and Mabini-Tingloy-Verde Island (Batangas City).
- There are at least 3 major potential areas for MPA establishment. These are northeastern Mindoro (including Puerto Galera area), northeastern Tingloy, and southeastern Calatagan. In addition, reef areas in Lubang Island were also identified to have good potential for MPA establishment.
- Coral reef communities in Mabini and Verde Island are extremely diverse, but are still threatened by impacts from overfishing, siltation and pollution. Suggested management recommendations include significantly reducing fishing efforts. However, substantial funding is required annually in order to improve management and enforcement activities in these areas.
Studies revealed that the ocean currents of Verde Island Passage are relatively stronger along narrow channels like Maricaban Strait. There is a general westward direction of ocean currents in the Verde Island Passage, forming eddies along coastal areas, and concentrating marine life in specific areas like Calatagan. This enhances species survival throughout the Verde Island Passage. Sea turtles, dolphins, manta rays and sharks are the animals commonly caught accidentally as by-catch. Research was conducted to quantify the incidence of by-catch of marine mammals, seabirds, sea turtles and other threatened marine animals in the coastal municipalities of the Batangas side of the Verde Island Passage. Seven fishing gears commonly used in the barangays visited were identified as responsible for these catches, including the drift gill net and the baby purse seine net which has the highest number of by-catch incidents. A signature campaign supported by eight municipalities and one city (Nasugbu, Calatagan, Balayan, Bauan, Mabini, Tingloy, Lobo, San Juan, and Batangas City) indicated local stakeholder support for the establishment of a network of marine protected areas in the Verde Island Passage. These municipalities established the Batangas Province Bay Watch Network which now conducts regular enforcement and patrols. Training courses on integrated coastal management on the code of conduct for responsible fisheries, and on local governance were provided to address the continuous need to enhance local capacities for effective coastal and marine conservation. Previous Page |
Conservation Corridors 
