As the interim secretariat, Western Philippines University (WPU) will play a pivotal role in the first-ever summit dedicated to the protection of the West Philippine Seascape (WPS) from March 1-3, 2023 in Puerto Princesa City. This summit, themed “Para sa Buhay at Kabuhayan (For Life and Livelihood): Harnessing the Voice of the CSOs to Protect WPS,” will unite approximately 60 civil society organizations (CSOs), NGOs, people’s organizations, academic and research institutions, and industry leaders to discuss collective strategies to preserve the WPS ecosystem.

In collaboration with USAID Fish Right, the summit aims to address critical issues facing the WPS, a region that provides essential economic and ecosystem services to Filipino communities. The primary focus will be the escalating risks posed by distant-water fishing fleets, which have strained local resources and jeopardized the livelihoods of small-scale fishers.

The summit will foster dialogue on collaborative action, engaging stakeholders in practical solutions to mitigate the environmental impact and resource depletion in the WPS. Concluding on March 3, a fireside chat will feature USAID leaders and local civil society voices, where they will discuss pressing challenges and explore paths for sustainable fisheries management. 

Palawan 3rd District Representative Edward S. Hagedorn, the author of House Bill 6373 advocating for marine protection in Kalayaan Island and Scarborough Shoal, is set to deliver the keynote address for the significant event.

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[This article is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals 8, 11, 14, 15, 16, & 17]