2016 Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan (MMK) 1st Runner-Up - Palompon, Leyte

Summary

The fishermen of Palompon are committed to following laws and municipal ordinances to maintain the cleanliness and abundance of their seas. They protect Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and sanctuaries, a program initiated over 20 years ago to combat illegal fishing. Many local fishermen once relied on illegal fishing for their livelihood, so livelihood programs are essential to their transition. The community implements solid waste management under Republic Act 9003. Collaboration between the local government and the community is key to achieving cleaner oceans and protecting the environment for sustainable benefits, with hopes of making the Philippines an abundant source of fish in the future.

Takeaways

• 🌊 The fishermen of Palompon are fully compliant with laws and municipal ordinances to maintain the cleanliness and health of the ocean.
• 🐠 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), like sanctuaries in Palompon, are protected to preserve marine life.
• 📅 These programs have been in place for 20 years, demonstrating a long-term commitment to marine conservation.
• 🚫 Ordinances and laws are enforced to combat illegal fishing, which has been a livelihood for some fishermen in Palompon for decades.
• 🦞 Livelihood programs are necessary to support fishermen transitioning away from illegal fishing practices.
• 🧼 Cleanliness is prioritized, particularly through the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Act under Republic Act 9003.
• 🔧 The use of tractors and bunker fuel is mentioned, possibly in the context of waste management or other environmental initiatives.
• 🤝 Shared responsibility is emphasized, indicating that a single local government unit (LGU) cannot solely create and enforce laws; community cooperation is required.
• 🌱 Cleaning the ocean and protecting the environment are highlighted as beneficial activities with potential widespread impact.
• 🌟 If these activities are replicated, the Philippines could become an abundant source of fish, suggesting a vision for the future of the country's marine resources.

Q & A

What steps do the fishermen in Palompon take to preserve the ocean’s cleanliness and abundance?

The fishermen in Palompon strictly adhere to local laws and municipal ordinances to maintain the cleanliness and abundance of their ocean. They also protect Marine Protected Areas (MPA), including sanctuaries in their locality.

When did the programs to protect Palompon's ocean and combat illegal fishing begin?

These programs began around 20 years ago, focusing on creating ordinances and laws to combat illegal fishing in the area.

Why is it necessary to provide livelihood programs for fishermen in Palompon?

Many of the fishermen in Palompon have historically relied on illegal fishing for their livelihood. Providing livelihood programs is necessary to offer them alternative ways to earn a living.

What law is being implemented to maintain cleanliness in Palompon?

The Solid Waste Management Act, under Republic Act 9003, is being implemented to maintain cleanliness in the area.

How is shared responsibility emphasized in protecting the environment in Palompon?

Shared responsibility is highlighted as crucial, meaning that it is not only the local government's role to create and enforce laws, but the community must also cooperate to ensure the success of these environmental initiatives.

What benefits are expected if the efforts to clean and protect the ocean are sustained?

If the efforts to clean and protect the ocean are sustained, there will be numerous benefits, including the potential for the Philippines to become an abundant source of fish in the future.

What specific environmental protection areas do the fishermen in Palompon safeguard?

The fishermen safeguard Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), including various marine sanctuaries in their region.

How do the fishermen in Palompon contribute to the local ordinances regarding illegal fishing?

The fishermen follow the ordinances set by the local government, which were created to combat illegal fishing and preserve the marine environment.

What alternative uses for waste products are mentioned in the script?

The waste products can be used in tractors and as bunker fuel, showcasing an innovative approach to waste management.

What is the ultimate goal of replicating Palompon's ocean protection activities across the Philippines?

The goal is to replicate these activities across the Philippines so that the country can one day become a bountiful source of fish, benefiting both the environment and the economy.