3 Hamilo Coast coves declared protected areas

MANILA, Philippines - The Municipal Council of Nasugbu, Batangas announced recently the approval of a landmark ordinance declaring three coves of Hamilo Coast – Pico de Loro, Santelmo, and Etayo – as marine protected areas (MPAs). 

Across the globe, many countries have set up MPAs to reverse marine decline caused by illegal fishing methods, habitat destruction, and marine pollution. In the Philippines alone, there are over 500 MPAs established for marine conservation. MPAs are clearly defined areas legally managed and restricted for conservation purposes.

Hamilo Coast is a pioneering residential leisure destination in Nasugbu that is being developed by SM Land. The 5,800-hectare property is an exclusive development that will host masterplanned communities amidst a rich natural environment. Of the total area, 1,800 hectares will be developed, leaving the rest of the property untouched and preserved for environmental sustainability.

Part of the charm of the property is the expansive natural setting, which includes 13 majestic coves situated along the coastline of Nasugbu. These coves add a unique character to this leisure destination and residential haven. Each cove is blessed with mountain ranges, unending views of the South China Sea, and teeming marine and terrestrial life. These also form part of the Verde Passage, which is known as the center of marine biodiversity in the world. This means that the area contains the most number of fish species globally within the coral triangle.

The declaration of Pico de Loro, Santelmo, and Etayo as MPAs is a step towards ensuring sustainable development of Hamilo Coast. The recent declaration of these three coves as MPAs is a product of a fruitful partnership between SM Land, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines, local stakeholders, and surrounding communities.

“We conducted an initial baseline study two years ago to check the health of reefs and quality of marine life in the area and found out that these three sites have the most potential for being declared as MPAs because of their biological attributes,” says Joel Palma, WWF-Philippines vice president for conservation programs. “However, the survey also revealed that the area has been subjected to various environmental stresses caused by illegal means of fishing, resulting in the deterioration of conditions of the coral, reef fish and seagrass or macrolagal communities.”

From this survey, proactive efforts have been undertaken by the developer and WWF-Philippines to expedite the approval of the said ordinance. As part of their partnership in the area of coastal resource management, extensive educational campaigns have been undertaken to inform and involve surrounding fishing communities and barangays within Hamilo Coast. 

“We explained to them that we are protecting the breeding ground of the fish. With the protection of the coves and corals, the fish will be allowed to breed freely and marine life can recover eventually. In the future, the communities will benefit from all of these efforts,” Palma adds.

Results of these campaigns have been positive. Residents of nearby barangays have organized groups such as Kaagapay ng Mamamayan para sa Kalikasan (KMK) and Samahan ng mga Mamalakaya ng Papaya (SAMAPA). KMK members are the most active in mangrove reforestation efforts in Pico de Loro and Papaya Coves. To date, they have voluntarily planted 20,000 seedlings. SAMAPA on the other hand, together with local authorities, now form part of Bantay Dagay, a non-profit group which patrols and apprehends the seas of Hamilo Coast from illegal fishers. Involvement of these said groups during multiparty consultations were pivotal in passing the MPA ordinance.

Passing of the MPA ordinance now classifies Santelmo Cove as a marine sanctuary. This converts Santelmo into a no-take zone, or where fishing activities will be prohibited. Santelmo cove has one of the best beaches in Hamilo Coast, with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. It has also been a nesting ground for endangered sea turtles or pawikans such as the Olive Ridley Turtles, one of the smallest of its kind in the world. Giant clams (taklobos) are likewise bred in the area, acting as natural filters in the area.

On the other hand, Pico de Loro and Etayo Coves are now marine reserves. Limited fishing will be allowed, but only through acceptable methods such as the use of hook and line, and with a limit of two fishing boats per 10 hectares. Etayo Cove is one of the identified prime diving sites within Hamilo Coast. Pico de Loro on the other hand is home to the first phase of developments at Hamilo Coast – nine residential buildings, a beach and country club, a saltwater lagoon, and a hotel. Like Santelmo Cove, it is also a favored breeding ground of pawikans and a nest for giant clams. To further ensure conservation of marine resources in these coves, a MPA Coastal Resource Management Council will be formed.

Through effective coastal resources management, Hamilo Coast is better poised to sustain, manage and conserve its biological attributes, both marine and terrestrial. “We are confident that with the commitment of stakeholders, the local government, and the community, these three coves can be protected thereby preserving the rich biodiversity and improving productivity for the fisherfolks in the area,” Palma affirms.