LGUs, resort protect coastal resources

CEBU, Philippines -   The local government units of Sogod and Bogo City in northern Cebu have signed a memorandum of partnership with Alegre Beach Resort and Spa in the protection and management of their respective coastal and marine resources.

In signing the partnership, marine biologist Gerrie Sola, head of Aqua Sports, emphasized that the issue of climate change and the other issues in its nexus are not simple problems, but are part of a “crisis” that has to be dealt with through concerted efforts. He said helping protect the environment is covered by the resort’s corporate social responsibility.

The agreement was reached in line with President Benigno Aquino’s call for a strong public-private partnership (PPP) in harnessing renewable energy sources, as well as realizing potentials of local communities as sustainable investment havens.

Under the partnership, marine protected areas such as fish sanctuaries will be opened in Sogod and at Bogo’s Capitancillo Island, which Alegre will help manage. 

Sola said the resort can also extend other services to the two local government units, including technical assistance, training and orientation, as well as monitoring coastal management programs.

“To ensure that correct measures are being practiced and applied for a cost effective implementation of each local government’s projects on marine and coastal management and conservation,” Sola said.

Sogod Mayor Lisa Marie Durano said the partnership will benefit the town especially that Sogod is blessed with white sand beaches. In fact, it is considered to be one of the country’s top beach destinations. 

“We have to protect our coastal and marine resources vis-à-vis tourism potentials, specifically the management of resorts and spas in our town. We need the partnership of the private sector to realize the tourism potential of Sogod,” Durano said.

Last June 2, 2011, Alegre Beach Resort & Spa through its Aqua Sports Department and the Municipality of Sogod installed marker bouys in the municipality’s marine sanctuary ensuring the protection of the thriving marine life in the area.

Under the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, all coastal municipalities are mandated to enact ordinances that will address the sustainable management, conservation, development, protection, utilization, and deposition of all fish, fishery or aquatic, and coastal resources within their respective municipal waters. — (FREEMAN)