Oceana Launches In the Philippines; Aims to Curb Overfishing and Rebuild Stocks
Press Release Date: October 31, 2014
Location: Manila, Philippines
Contact:
Anna Baxter | email: abaxter@oceana.org
Anna Baxter
Oceana, the largest international organization focused exclusively on restoring the worlds oceans, is proud to announce the launch of its Philippine operation, which is led by Vice President Atty. Gloria “Golly” Estenzo Ramos. The international marine conservation organization is hosting a national symposium on fisheries – „The road to sustainable fisheries governance” – November 3 and 4 to discuss various perspectives on the state of fisheries in the Philippines. A workshop among scientists on reconstruction of Filipino fisheries will follow the event.
“In a nation where fishing is critical to the livelihood of millions, it is deeply concerning that more than 75% of our fishing grounds are depleted. Overexploitation has been driven by excess fishing pressure, a lack of coordination among agencies, destructive fishing and until recently, a lack of political will to implement the laws,” stated Ramos, who added: “I am honored to take the helm of this organization’s work in the Philippines at a time when we can truly make a difference in our country and the region.”
Oceana board member Dr. Daniel Pauly who leads the “Sea Around Us Project” at the University of British Columbia, will be delivering the keynote address at the event. BFAR National Director Atty. Asis Perez will share the nation”s strategic moves to counter illegal, unregistered and unreported fishing. Dr. Mike Hirshfield, Oceana”s Chief Scientist and Strategy Officer speaks about Oceana and the Philippines. Stakeholders from the government and fisheries sectors, the justice system, academia, NGOs &