Trade of endangered marine resources prohibited, Zubiri reminds exporters

MANILA, Philippines - Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, chairman of the Senate committee on environment and natural resources reminded yesterday exporters of shells in Cebu, on laws that regulate the collection and trade of endangered marine resources.

Zubiri noted that under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) of wild fauna and flora, a ban on the collection, harvest and export of some shell species is in effect.

“So the shell craft industry of Cebu should take note of those particular rare shells,” Zubiri said.

The senator also cited the Wildlife Conservation Act or Republic Act 9147, which he authored and prohibits the sale of endangered species and the destruction of its habitats.

“So as long as this shell and shell craft industries of Cebu are operating within the laws and not harvesting endangered species seashells and other marine resources, then they have nothing to worry about,” he said.