Miguel Enrique Ma. A. Azcuna, Jonel M. Corral, Enriquo Martin C. Velasquez, Karlo L. Pintor, Yno Madriaga, John Lester M. Dastas
RATIONALE
Nasugbu, Batangas is situated at the heart of the Asia-Pacific region and is located at the entry of the Verde Island Passage (VIP). Three of these coves (Pico de Loro, Santelmo, and Etayo) were declared as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) by the local government towards the attainment of sustainable development of the coast. Recently, Twin Island was also declared as a MPA, and efforts are being made to widen the scope of this protected area (MENRO Nasugbu pers. comm).
OBJECTIVES
- To conduct coral reef assessments in MPAs of Nasugbu using standardized methods.
- To obtain coral assessment data and geocoordinates in MPAs of Nasugbu.
- To process the coral assessment data and specific geocoordinates to obtain biodiversity information for each MPA.
- To store and manage the biodiversity information and geocoordinates in an online database and website.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
- Fieldwork for the coral reef assessment in Santelmo Cove, Etayo Cove, Cutad Cove, and Twin Island.