Moalboal’s famous dive tourism takes lead to protect its underwater paradise

MOALBOAL, Cebu — Famous worldwide for its breathtaking sardine run and thriving resident sea turtle population, Moalboal draws thousands of eager divers and snorkelers to its turquoise waters each year. But as tourism surges along the shores of Panagsa Beach, a crucial mission is unfolding beneath the surface, ensuring that the very attractions putting this quiet Cebu town on the global map are preserved for generations to come.

Recognizing that sustainable tourism relies on a thriving marine ecosystem, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Region 7 steps up efforts to position the local dive industry as the front line of defense for Central Visayas’ coral reefs.

Through its Coastal and Marine Management Unit (CMMU) under CENRO Argao, DENR-7 recently conducted a Green Fins implementation, re-orientation, and feedback session on July 27–28, at Panagsa Beach in Barangay Basdiot.

The initiative focused on accredited dive operators MB Ocean Blue and Lion Dive Resort, two key players in Moalboal's vibrant dive community.

Led by DENR-7 Green Fins Assessors Carlo Babiera and Eduardo Fidel, the sessions went beyond routine environmental standard checks. Operators, guides, and assessors engaged in candid discussions about marine biodiversity conservation, waste management, and practical ways to minimize the human footprint on delicate coral ecosystems.

The gathering provided a platform for dive leaders to share real-world challenges from the water and collaborate on practical solutions to uphold international Green Fins standards.

For Moalboal, where coastal livelihoods and the local economy are deeply intertwined with the health of the ocean, the program highlights a powerful synergy-- responsible diving isn't just good for nature, it's essential for business.

Preventing physical damage to reefs and reducing stress on wildlife directly safeguards the breathtaking underwater landscapes that make Moalboal a premier tropical getaway.  The initiative also reinforced strong ties among the DENR, the Local Government Unit of Moalboal, and the private sector, cementing a unified approach within the Green Fins pilot area.

"The success of marine tourism depends on the health of our oceans. Every dive operator, dive guide, and tourist have a role to play in conserving the coral reefs and marine biodiversity that make Moalboal a world-class diving destination, the DENR said.

By empowering dive operators as active environmental stewards, the Green Fins Program ensures that Moalboal’s tourism expansion goes hand-in-hand with conservation, guaranteeing that every plunge into its vibrant waters remains a world-class experience far into the future. (Photos: DENR-7)

183 sea turtle hatchlings make their way to sea in Panglao

PANGLAO, Bohol — A total of 183 Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) hatchlings safely made their way to the sea on July 3, 2026, following the successful emergence from the second protected nest at Hennan Premier Coast in Tawala, Panglao.

“Every hatchling that reaches the sea represents hope for the future of our marine ecosystems. This milestone reflects what can be achieved through vigilance, science-based conservation, and the strong partnership among government agencies, the private sector, and local stakeholders. Protecting marine turtle nesting sites today helps ensure that future generations will continue to witness these remarkable species in our coastal waters,” said Bohol OIC PENRO, Wilson Henson.

The nest, laid on May 13, 2026, contained 198 eggs and after an incubation period of 51 days, the hatchlings began emerging at 5:34 p.m. and were safely released into the sea from 5:58 p.m. to 6:34 p.m. through the coordinated efforts of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Hennan Premier Coast, Henson bared.

The nesting site remains under protection and close monitoring, with 15 eggs yet to hatch.  DENR personnel continue safeguarding the nest until the hatching period concludes, after which a nest excavation was conducted to determine the final hatching success and evaluate the remaining eggs in accordance with established marine turtle conservation protocols.

Henson bared that the successful emergence highlighted the importance of sustained conservation efforts and community partnerships in protecting the province’s rich marine biodiversity, while DENR-7 Regional Executive Director Laudemir Salac emphasized that the successful hatching demonstrated the impact of collaborative environmental stewardship.

“The successful emergence of these 183 sea turtle hatchlings is a clear reminder that conservation efforts truly bear fruit when carried out with commitment, science, and strong partnerships.  Every protected nest and every hatchling that safely reaches the sea is a meaningful step toward securing the future of our marine biodiversity. This achievement reflects what government agencies, the private sector, and local communities can accomplish when we work together in protecting our shared natural heritage,” said Salac.

DENR-7 said Panglao Island has become an active nesting corridor for green sea turtles and calls the Tawala to Libaong coastline an active sea turtle nesting habitat and known nesting corridor.   

Repeated nesting is seen as a sign of a healthy marine ecosystem.  Green Sea Turtles are among the marine species protected under Philippine environmental laws and international conservation agreements. Their continued survival depends on the protection of nesting beaches, responsible coastal management, and active public participation in biodiversity conservation.

It can be recalled that on June 15, 2026, 79 baby green sea turtles were released into Panglao Sea at Alona Beach.  The hatchlings came from the 227+ eggs first documented on April 25 in front of Henann Resort.  Because the nest was in a high-tide zone, eggs were relocated to a safer area to protect them from waves and rising sea levels.

On May 13 2026, another green sea turtle nested along Alona shoreline and on May 29, 2026, the 4th recorded nesting event this year on Alona Beach.  Protection measures included the cordoning off of the nest sites for 45-70 days incubation; reduced artificial lighting + disturbance-free zones and bamboo barriers installed around nests.

According to the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO), 41 marine turtles stranding have been recorded from 2019 to 2023, averaging eight turtles stranding per year.  From January to September 2024, seven marine turtles stranding were also recorded.

Bohol governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado reaffirmed commitment to make Bohol a safe haven for green sea turtles, while resorts in the area and other stakeholders in the community help monitor and protect the turtle nests.

“The increasing nesting activity shows conservation efforts are working and reflects the health of coastal ecosystems here in Panglao, Bohol,” Aumentado said. (Photos: DENR-7)

 

DENR7, BFP7 ink partnership for forest fire protection in Central Visayas

 CEBU CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Region VII signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen forest fire prevention, emergency response, suppression operations, capacity development, and environmental protection throughout Central Visayas.

DENR7 Regional Executive Director Laudemir Salac and BFP7 Regional Director FCSUPT Fred Trajeras Jr., represented by BFP Assistant Regional Director for Operations FSSUPT Rogelio Bongabong Jr. signed the partnership at the opening of the Training on Forest Fire Management, Prevention, and Suppression on June 17, 2026, at SOI Suites, Talibon, Bohol.

“Climate change continues to heighten the frequency and intensity of forest and grassfires and this collaboration marks a proactive and strategic step toward safeguarding the region's forests, watersheds, biodiversity, and communities that rely on these critical ecosystems for their survival and well-being,” said Salac at the signing ceremony.

Salac said that the memorandum of understanding is more than a formal agreement, it represents a shared pledge of action, partnership, and resilience. It brings together environmental stewards and fire responders under a common mission—to prevent disasters before they occur, protect lives and natural resources, and ensure that future generations inherit healthy and thriving forests.

With the partnership, DENR7 and BFP7 believed that protecting forests is not solely an environmental responsibility but a collective commitment to securing communities, sustaining livelihoods, and building a climate-resilient future for all.

DENR-Bohol Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Forester Wilson Henson, Bohol Provincial Fire Marshal FSUPT Raul Bustaliño, and Vincent Pairault, Civil Protection Regional Attaché of the Embassy of France, were present to witness the signing of a multi-sectoral cooperation in addressing emerging environmental and disaster-related challenges. (Photos: DENR7)

 

 

DENR-Bohol confirms nesting of a Green Sea Turtle fronting a resort in Panglao

PANGLAO, Bohol-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) in Bohol called on the public and the owners of a resort in Panglao, Bohol to help adequately protect the nesting site of a Green Sea Turtle situated along the shoreline fronting Henann Resort in Tawala, Panglao, Bohol, the stretch of coast leading to Amorita Resort is well known for its Green Sea Turtle Nesting. 

“This nesting event is a positive indication that our coastal ecosystems in Bohol continue to provide support to marine biodiversity.  We're asking everyone, residents, visitors and coastal stakeholders – to help us keep this nest safe until the hatchlings make it to the sea,” said PENR Officer Wilson Henson, reminding everyone of the shared duty to protect these fragile habitats.

Green sea turtles are one of the world’s most iconic marine species and play a vital role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds and marine ecosystems. However, they are currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Habitat loss, coastal development, pollution, illegal wildlife trade and climate change all threaten their populations. Thus, each successful nesting event is an important contribution to the survival of the species, Henson said.

According to Henson, local coordination channels reported first the citing of the turtle nest that was immediately confirmed by DENR-Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS), the Panglao Island Restoration and Rehabilitation Program (PIRRP), and the Philippine Coast Guard.

The nesting site lies within a known sea turtle nesting corridor along the coastal stretch going towards Libaong, highlighting the ecological importance of Panglao’s beaches as vital habitats for marine wildlife, the team added.

After confirmation, DENR Bohol responders immediately cordoned the area and established protective measures including temporary cover to prevent disturbance.  This will be replaced by a more suitable enclosure to ensure the nest is adequately protected. The management of the resort has also been advised to cut down on artificial lighting in the vicinity as too much lighting can disorient hatchlings and disturb nesting female sea turtles, Henson said.

“Every wildlife that builds a nest is a sign of hope, and also a call to action. Saving sea turtles is not only the government’s work but communities and partners working together.  With continued protection and good coastal management, we can give these species a fighting chance to survive and thrive,” DENR7 Regional Executive Director Laudemir Salac pointed out the need to work together to protect wildlife.

Henson bared that DENR and partner agencies continue to conduct regular monitoring. The eggs are believed to hatch in approximately 45 to 70 days, and heightened protection and monitoring will be put in place to ensure the safe emergence of the hatchlings.

Residents, tourists and stakeholders are urged to help protect this nesting site, and other similar sites, by not disturbing or coming into contact with the nesting area; not using flash photography and bright lights near the nesting site; disposing of waste properly to avoid marine pollution, and reporting any sightings of wildlife or concerns to local authorities.

“It's a good reminder of the fact that our coastal ecosystems are still alive and can renew themselves when they are protected.  With collective vigilance and responsible stewardship, we can ensure that these remarkable natural events continue to be witnessed by future generations,” Salac added. (Photos: DENR7 & Google Images)

 

MGB-7, PNP to intensify campaign against illegal mining in Central Visayas

 CEBU CITY – Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB)-Region VII has officially empowered members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), and the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO) through a new Order of Deputation to act as Deputy Environment and Natural Resources Officers (DENRO) to intensify campaign against illegal mining and quarrying in Central Visayas.

"We believe that the best way to safeguard our environment is through shared responsibility. Through the formal ‘deputization’ of law enforcement, we are strengthening our enforcement network to ensure the sustainable management of our mineral resources in the region," said OIC Regional Director Al Emil Berador.

Berador emphasized that the move is a strategic shift toward a "community-driven" approach to environmental stewardship and to intensify law enforcement in a unified front against these illegal activities across the region.

Through the order of deputation, these officers are now authorized to investigate, arrest violators, and seize illegally sourced minerals along with the conveyances, including trucks and heavy equipment used in these unauthorized activities, Berador added.

MGB-7 conducted the Enforcement Training on Anti-Illegal Mining to the newly deputized officers on March 18 with a firm understanding of mining laws, translating complex technical regulations into applicable field protocols.

Mining Claim Examiner Engr. Jacob Densing led a comprehensive session on the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (RA 7942), clarifying the vital distinctions between mining permits issued directly by the MGB/DENR and those issued by LGUs under devolved functions.

MGB-7 Legal Officer Atty. Gleen Revilla-Maravilla established the legal framework for their new roles as Deputy Environment and Natural Resources Officers (DENRO), focusing on strict protocols for the apprehension, arrest, and seizure of illegally sourced minerals and the conveyances such as trucks and heavy equipment used in unauthorized extractions.

This authority is grounded in Section 9 and 103 of RA 7942, DAO No. 2010-21, and the revised ‘deputization’ guidelines under DAO No. 2008-22. The training and oath-taking of the newly deputized personnel, were held on March 18 at the CIDG Conference Room in Camp Sotero Cabahug, Cebu City, marking their formal entry into the bureau's enforcement network.

Police Captain Joseph Elmer Cornea of the CIDG expressed gratitude for the training, noting that the “deputization” empowers the PNP to act decisively against environmental violators while ensuring all field operations remain within the bounds of the law. (Photos: MGB7/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

DENR-7 reopens Virgin Island in Bohol, must adhere to Marine Tourism Guidelines

CENTRAL VISAYAS-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Region VII, the Provincial Government of Bohol, the Local Government Unit of Panglao, and the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) reopened Puntod Island, which is frequently referred to as Virgin Island, within the Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS) on February 2, 2026 following the approval of PAMB Resolution No. 03, Series of 2026, lifting the temporary closure order that was imposed in 2024 due to reported incidents of coral vandalism at the Estaca snorkeling site in August 2024. 

The re-opening of Virgin Island is contingent upon strict adherence to the DENR Ecotourism Guidelines, Marine Tourism Guidelines, and existing environmental laws on sustainable and responsive ecotourism, as emphasized by DENR-7.

"The regulated reopening serves as a testament to our commitment to environmental protection,” said Laudemir Salac, Regional Executive Director of DENR-7 OIC and the Chairperson of PAMB as he reiterated the continued importance of environmental protection.

Salac stated that to guarantee the long-term preservation of Virgin Island's marine resources, tourism activities must adhere to the ecotourism guidelines of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Continuous monitoring is implemented to prevent environmental degradation, and clear regulations are enforced regarding visitor management, carrying capacity, waste management, and the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems, Salac said.

The temporary closure was implemented in response to reported incidents of coral vandalism at the Estaca snorkeling site in August 2024. In response, the DENR, in collaboration with the LGU-Panglao and partner agencies, immediately conducted investigations, identified the individuals involved, and initiated the filing of appropriate legal actions through the PIPS Protected Area Management Office (PAMO).

Key interventions were implemented during the closure period to enhance the safety of visitors and the protection of the site. The DENR CRERDEC and CDD-CMEMP with the PIPS PAMO conducted coral and site assessments, which included the installation of mooring buoys and navigational guides.

Additionally, the DENR -7 Team implemented the construction of a ticketing booth and the implementation of capacity-building activities, such as basic life support training, water safety training, and DOT accreditation for local boat operators.

The PAMB's decision to lift the temporary closure was predicated on the successful implementation of these interventions and the dedication of stakeholders to adhere to the Marine Tourism Guidelines that were adopted within the protected seascape.

Salac urged all stakeholders, including tour operators and visitors, to support environmental regulations and help maintain Virgin Island as a model of sustainable ecotourism in the PanglaoIsland Protected Seascape. (Photos: DENR-7)

Silliman U calls for full accountability on spent wash spill into Tañon Strait Protected Seascape

DUMAGUETE CITY – Silliman University (SU) issued a statement expressing its deep concerns and solidarity with the communities and ecosystems affected by the catastrophic spill of untreated molasses wastewater into the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS), the Philippines’ largest marine protected area, encompassing more than 500,000 hectares between Negros and Cebu.

In its official statement shared to media, SU stands in solidarity with the affected communities and remains steadfast in its commitment to science-based environmental action, accountability, and ecological restoration.

On the evening of October 26, 2025, Silliman University received reports that the wastewater lagoon of Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) Bais Distillery collapsed, releasing large volumes of molasses-based ethanol wastewater (spent wash, vinasse, or stillage) into Bais Bay, which caused severe water discoloration, fish kills, and algal blooms, gravely threatening the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the Tañon Strait.

Silliman’s immediate response was to mobilize scientific teams to assess the environmental impacts in coordination with government agencies and local partners.  On November 1, 2025, a team from SU, in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (DENR-TSPS) and URC representatives, conducted a preliminary water quality assessment confirming oxygen depletion in the affected waters.

On November 2, 2025, another SU team with DENR-TSPS, URC, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Manjuyod Bantay Dagat carried out a rapid field assessment to determine the extent of the spill and severity of fish kills.

Preliminary results from on-site surveys and drone-based Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping indicated that the spent wash plume has affected between 4,494 and 6,000 hectares of marine and coastal waters as of October 31 and November 2, 2025, according to data from both SU and DENR-TSPS.

Localized fish kills were observed up to seven kilometers from the spill source. Interviews with fish pen and corral operators in Manjuyod revealed economic losses ranging from approximately PhP 1,000 to PhP 1.8 million per operator, along with extensive damage to seaweed farms during the peak of the fish kills on October 27, 2025.

 

These findings provide a scientific basis for guiding immediate response measures and supporting evidence-based rehabilitation and management strategies.

Actions and recommendations

The University continues to support the Department of Environment and Natural Resources -Negros Island - Siquijor Region (DENR-NIR) through ongoing water quality and biological assessments, technical advisories, and the formulation of rehabilitation plans.  These efforts address both immediate mitigation and long-term recovery, including habitat restoration, fisheries management, and livelihood revitalization. 

Silliman, in its official statement strongly recommends the urgent repair of the collapsed lagoon and containment structures, the implementation of transparent and regular water quality monitoring, and strengthened multi-sectoral coordination to prevent further ecological damage.

The University also highlights the need for strict compliance with environmental safety and pollution control standards to protect marine and coastal ecosystems, and it calls for full accountability and comprehensive restoration from all responsible parties to uphold environmental justice for the affected communities and ecosystems of the Tañon Strait. 

“The University urges collective vigilance, shared responsibility, and sustained stewardship of our common marine heritage so that the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape and the life it sustains may continue to thrive for generations to come,” the statement reads. (Photos: Google Images)