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Eastern Samar Municipalities Collaborate for Marine Conservation
Eastern Samar’s coastal towns unite to protect shared seas
Inquirer
Image: Inquirer
Seven coastal municipalities in Eastern Samar, Philippines, have revitalized their alliance to protect marine resources and support local fisherfolk. The Alliance of Seven Municipalities for Integrated Coastal Zone Management aims to combat threats like overfishing and habitat degradation, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for thousands dependent on the sea.
- 01The alliance was formally renewed on May 27, 2023, in Guiuan, with participation from Lawaan, Balangiga, Giporlos, Quinapondan, Salcedo, Mercedes, and Guiuan.
- 02Approximately 80% of Guiuan's population relies on the sea for their livelihood, highlighting the community's dependence on marine resources.
- 03The alliance has established over 30 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and developed a Fisheries Management Plan to enhance fishery sustainability.
- 04Eastern Samar's Provincial Government pledged an annual support of ₱1.5 million (approximately $27,000 USD) for the alliance's programs.
- 05The initiative is backed by various organizations, including the Philippine National Police and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
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In a concerted effort to safeguard marine resources, seven coastal municipalities in Eastern Samar, Philippines, have revitalized their alliance known as the Alliance of Seven Municipalities for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (A7ICZM). This initiative, formalized on May 27, 2023, in Guiuan, aims to address critical issues such as declining fish stocks, overfishing, and illegal fishing activities that threaten the livelihoods of local fisherfolk. Guiuan Mayor Annaliza Gonzales-Kwan, who leads the alliance, emphasized the interconnected challenges faced by these municipalities and the need for collective action. The alliance, which originated in 2006, has achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of Marine Protected Areas and a Uniform Municipal Fisheries Ordinance. The Eastern Samar Provincial Government has pledged ₱1.5 million (approximately $27,000 USD) annually to support these efforts, alongside backing from various conservation partners. The renewed commitment aims to enhance cooperation among municipalities, bolster coastal ecosystem resilience, and secure sustainable livelihoods for the fisherfolk reliant on these marine resources.
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The alliance's revival is expected to strengthen marine resource management and enhance the livelihoods of local fisherfolk in Eastern Samar.
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