TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA) – The provincial government of Bohol has partnered with Balyena.org, a non-profit marine mammal research group, to protect the Bohol Sea and its diverse marine life, including 19 documented species of whales and dolphins, manta rays, and the pygmy blue whale.
The Bohol provincial board previously authorized the partnership, which will involve marine mammal monitoring, whale movement studies, stranding response support, public awareness campaigns, and capacity-building initiatives for local stakeholders.
Bohol Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado emphasized that the partnership is a significant step toward mobilizing the community in upholding Bohol’s UNESCO Global Geopark designation.
“The Memorandum of Agreement for the collaborative Marine Mammals of the Bohol Sea Project marks a vital marine biodiversity milestone in the continued commitment to conservation here in Bohol,” Aumentado said.
The governor expressed hope that the project will advance the conservation and protection of marine wildlife species in Bohol waters.
“Through science, cooperation and sustained advocacy, we are hopeful that this initiative will inspire stronger marine protection efforts not only in Bohol but also across the country,” he stated.
The partnership aligns with the provincial government’s aim to preserve and protect marine wildlife within its territories.
“With the partnership with Balyena.org, this directly supports the province’s broader goals of marine conservation, scientific research, and sustainable development,” said Jovencia Ganub, head of the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO).
Ganub noted that through this project, Bohol strengthens its conservation framework under its UNESCO Global Geopark status.
“With the conservation group helping Bohol, the scientific data from their research monitoring can back practical policy recommendations and community-based action, thus making them a valuable partner in achieving long-term biodiversity goals,” she added.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
The Bohol Sea, a crucial link between the Pacific Ocean and the West Philippine Sea, is considered a marine “super highway.” Its deep undersea gorges and strong currents attract a wide array of pelagic fish, marine mammals, dolphins, and manta rays, providing ideal food sources for these animals.
The fresh river systems feeding into the Bohol Sea with a mix of fresh and saltwater further support these marine animals during their migrations.
The Bohol Sea’s designation as both an Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) and a Marine Key Biodiversity Area (MKBA) underscores its ecological significance and the urgent need for informed, collaborative conservation actions, particularly involving local communities.
The presence of baleen and toothed whales in Bohol has drawn Balyena.org, which has been conducting marine research in the region since 2010, making them a key partner in community mobilization for conservation efforts. (RAHC/PIA7 Bohol)
