The vastness of the Philippine waters provides significant supply of food and protein as well as opportunities for development for commercial and municipal fisheries. The utilization of such immense marine resource should be geared along sustainability not only for survival, but also to the country s increasing population, environmental degradation, and the state s commitment to the Global competitiveness archetype. The establishment of non-fishing areas in marine protected areas would double fish catch in 5 years (Roberts, 2002)

Dickson, Alma C.

Velasco, Pierre Easter L.

Aquatic Commons

CP 04 |  65
CORAL GARDEN & REEF REHABILITATION PROJECT, 
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MARINE RESERVES AND FISH 
SANCTUARIES OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES AND 
AQUATIC RESOURCES (BFAR) 
IN THE PHILIPPINES
Alma C. Dickson, Pierre Easter L. Velasco
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippines
ABSTRACT
The vastness of the Philippine waters provides significant supply of food and protein as well as 
opportunities for development for commercial and municipal fisheries. The utilization of such immense 
marine resource should be geared along sustainability not only for survival, but also to the country’s 
increasing population, environm ental degradation, and the s ta te ’s com m itm ent to the Global 
competitiveness archetype. The establishment of non-fishing areas in marine protected areas would double 
fish catch in 5 years (Roberts, 2002).
■  INTRODUCTION
The Philippines Marine Resources 
envelops a total area of 220,000 hectares 
(including the Exclusive Economic Zone), 
consisting of 193,400,000 hectares of oceanic 
or off-shore waters, and 27, 000 sq. km. of 
coral reef areas. At present, destructive/illegal 
fishing, pollution, sedimentation and other 
anthropogenic activities mainly cause the 
destruction and depletion of the coral reefs. 
476,900 metric tons valued at P 13.3 billion 
are lost from illegal fishing activities every 
year such as poaching by foreign fishing 
vessels which resulted to the loss of around 
80,000 metric tons of fish and other aquatic 
products valued at P 2.23 billion and coral reef 
destruction of 396,900 metric tons valued at 
P11.07 billion pesos. To date, only 4 percent 
of the coral reefs in the Philippines remain in 
excellent condition and 70 percent of which 
are at high risk from human activities. On the 
other hand, worldwide concern has been raised 
in order to save, manage, and protect the fast 
diminishing coral reef resource.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic 
Resources (BFAR) launched an innovative 
coral reef management and regeneration 
program: The Coral Gardening and Reef 
Rehabilitation Project in Tangalan, Aklan, the 
initial implementing strategy for sustainable 
fisheries management. The Program seeks to
promote alternative livelihood to reduce 
community pressure on the reefs through 
“green” coral aquaculture. The BFAR with the 
LGU of Tangalan, A klan  has identified and 
delineated the 10 ha. site/area for the said coral 
rehabilitation and marine resource 
conservation and protection project. In 
addition to the 13 identified sites of the 
NFARMC (National Fisheries and Aquatic 
Resource Management Council), the BFAR- 
CO has identified 26 sites from ARMM 
(Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao) 
and 21 from BFAR-RFO 2. Overall, 60 sites/ 
areas has been identified which needs 
prioritization and assessment as basis for 
introducing management interventions. To 
date, over 400 marine reserves and fish 
sanctuaries have been established all over the 
country with a total area of 8,313.90 has.
■  SIGNIFICANCE OF THE PROJECT
The Nationwide implementation of 
the establishment of Marine reserves and 
sanctuaries will protect the coral reefs from 
further degradation and destruction due to 
illegal and destructive fishing activities, 
pollution, sedimentation and human activities. 
Coastal and Municipal Fisheries has declined 
its production, from a peak of 1,070,195 
(million) m.t. in 1988 to only 924,466 (33.4%) 
m.t. in 1997. Furthermore, 476,900 metric tons
6 6  E n h a n c in g  C o a s ta l R e s o u rc e s : A r t i f i c i a l  R e e fs  S ta t io n a ry  F is h in g  G e a r D e s ig n  an d  C o n s tru c t io n  
a n d  M a r in e  P ro te c te d  A re a s
valued at P 13.31 Billion pesos are lost to  
illegal fishing activities. This is broken down 
as follows: poaching by foreign fishing vessels 
at 80,000 metric tons valued at 2.23 Billion 
pesos; and coral reef destruction due to blast 
and cyanide fishing at 396,900 metric tons 
valued at P 11.07 Billion pesos.
“Coral Garden and Reef 
Rehabilitation Project o f the BFAR”
The BFAR SCUBA Divers Task 
Force in cooperation with the LGU of 
Tangalan, Aklan, and the BFAR-NMFDC 
launched the First of its kind Coral Garden 
and Reef Rehabilitation Project to 
rehabilitate, manage and protect the said Coral 
Reef by establishing a Marine Reserve and 
deploy ARs in the said Municipality which, 
upon its successful implementation shall be 
intended in other priority areas.
A survey conducted by the BFAR 
SCUBA Divers Task Force yielded 12.09% 
of live corals in Puntod reef is (table 1), an 
alarming decline compared to the previous 
survey conducted by SEAFDEC (1998), which 
registered 58.4% live coral cover. 
Furthermore, dead corals registered at 27.62, 
a distressing increase compared to 12.8% as 
recorded by SEAFDEC (1998).
Table 1. Percent Cover of Major Benthic 
Lifeform Categories in Puntod 
Reef, Tangalan, Aklan
Lifeform Categories Percent Cover (% )
Live Corals 12.09
Dead Corals 27.62
Algae 1.545
Other Fauna 8.287
Abiotics 50.43
The grim scenario of the coral reef of 
Tangalan, Aklan calls for immediate intervention. 
The rapid rate of destruction/degradation will 
ultimately wipe out the coral reefs by the time the 
year-ends.
The BFAR SCUBA Divers Task Force, 
Tangalan, Aklan LGU, and the BFAR-NMFDC is 
charged to rehabilitate, manage and protect the said 
Coral Reef by establishing a Marine Reserve and 
deploy ARs in the said site in Brgy. Jawili, 
Tangalan, Aklan.
Another Twelve (12) sites all over the 
country have also been identified by the BFAR 
that needs immediate intervention. The 
alarming rate of decline and diminishing of 
fish caught and coral reef species respectively 
has raised the concern of both the stakeholders 
and LGUs of the provinces and municipalities 
but such undertakings though a priority 
concern on resource conservation and 
management are at stake in view of the absence 
of funding requirements, hence the need for 
grants in aid to support its successful 
implementation.
■  OBJECTIVES:
General
1. To conserve and initiate the 
rehabilitation of damaged reefs in the fish 
sanctuary in the Philippines initially in Puntod 
Reef, Tangalan, Aklan
2. To uplift the standard of living 
conditions of the fisherfolk in the local fishing 
communities
Specific Objectives
1. To concentrate marine organisms 
to allow for more efficient but selective and 
regulated fishing activities
2. To protect small/juvenile organisms 
and nursery areas from destructive fishing 
activities
3. Increase the natural productivity 
eventually by supplying new habitats for 
sessile or permanently attached organisms and 
by allowing the establishment of an associated 
food chain
4. To create habitats and stimulate 
natural reefs for desired target species
5. Restore dead or degraded coral
reefs
6. Generate income through tourism
7. To educate the primary 
stakeholders in the local fishing communities 
in Tangalan, Aklan about coral reef 
conservation and rehabilitation and build their 
capabilities to monitor and manage their coral 
reef resources.
CP 04 |  67
■  DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic 
Resources (BFAR) has formed and organized 
the BFAR SCUBA Divers Task Force with a 
primary purpose to m onitor, manage, 
safeguard the Coral Reef Resources of the 
Philippines and to establish Marine Reserves 
and Fish Sanctuaries. Initially  it will 
im plem ent the Coral Garden and Reef 
Rehabilitation Project in Tangalan, Aklan to 
be followed by other areas upon availability 
of funding and technical support to pursue said 
activities. The components of the Project are 
as follows:
Artificial Reefs
Fifty (50) modules or eight hundred 
(800) of concrete building blocks (1 
module= 16 units, 2m x 0.20m x 0.15m) will 
serve as artificial reefs. The artificial reefs will 
be installed/sited within the marine park/ 
sanctuaries. The installation will be conducted 
on fine weather condition; water current is 
moderate, and good visibility.
1. An ocular survey was conducted to 
identify suitable/viable sites/area for the 
installation of Artificial Reef modules/units. 
The Manta Tow method was utilized in the 
survey to facilitate a fast and reliable 
assessment of the reef.
2. The Identified site will be marked 
with buoys based on the recorded coordinates 
in the initial survey conducted last Aug. 2-8, 
2002.
3. The total area of the proposed LGU 
marine sanctuary is 370 hectare and is 5.13 
kilometers from Casa Blanca, Brgy. Jawili, 
Tangalan, Aklan. Furthermore, the proposed 
BFAR Coral Garden has a total area of 15.36 
ha. and lies in Puntod-Tungod reef (11? 49.00 
N, 122? 16.30 E). Visibility is relatively good 
and adequate sunlight penetrates to the bottom 
in all parts of the reef. It was observed though, 
that a strong surface current surges in the later 
part of the day.
Coral Fragmentation
The one-square meter quadrant shall 
be the basic experimental unit because it is
retractable and because ecological processes 
taking place on this scale can be readily 
interpreted using human scales of perception. 
It is also easy to replicate.
1. At least three (3) colonies of coral 
species will be transplanted to each 
experimental unit. The particular species to be 
used will depend on what is available for 
surrounding reef patches. Colonies form 
different species will be randomly within each 
experimental unit.
2. Coral Fragm ents (will be 
introduced into selected sites by transporting 
them in well-aerated water filled containers 
on-board a banca. Whenever possible, whole 
colonies rather portions of colonies, will be 
used. These will be attached to a firm substrate 
by cement or by tying with plastic coated 
wires.
Colonies harboring obvious signs 
of disease will not be transplanted
3. Growth and survival of the 
fragments will be assessed periodically (once 
in every 4 months)
4. Survival will be assessed by 
counting the nos. of remaining healthy coral 
colonies and dividing the nos. by the original 
nos. of coral colonies at the start of the 
experiment
5. Recruitment of reef fishes and other 
invertebrates into the patches created by the 
coral transplants will also be observed
6. Indicators/criteria of success in 
rehabilitation efforts with the proposed 
project will be:
6.1 Survival and significant 
growth of the transplanted coral colonies
6.2 Absence of damage to the 
source patches from which coral transplants 
are obtained
6.3 Significant enhancement of the 
diversity and abundance of fish and other 
invertebrates
Site Selection
The selection of the proposed coral garden 
site/area were based on the following criteria:
1. At least 500m away from natural
reefs
6 8  E n h a n c in g  C o a s ta l R e s o u rc e s : A r t i f i c i a l  R e e fs  S ta t io n a ry  F is h in g  G e a r D e s ig n  an d  C o n s tru c t io n  
a n d  M a r in e  P ro te c te d  A re a s
2. Near an alternative food source (i.e. 
sea grass beds)
3. Constructed on a barren and stable 
substrate area of flat or gently sloping bottom 
of relatively good visibility.
4. At depths of 15m to 25m, protected 
form wave action but still accessible to local 
fishermen.
5. If coastal management project is 
already on going, or if site is a successful 
marine protected area
6. Absence of sources of chronic 
damage to reefs. Otherwise, reef rehabilitation 
will not succeed.
7. Relatively protected from wave
action
8. Deployment of Artificial reefs 
(AR’s) may be considered in areas where there 
is no stable substrate available
9. Accessible and manageable to the 
fisherfolk/stakeholders
Survey and Assessment
A survey of the proposed site will be 
conducted using the Line Intercept Transect 
Method (LIT). This w ill determ ine the 
condition/status of the marine benthos 
communities (English et. al. 1997). 
Furthermore, the results of the survey will help 
stakeholders determine the appropriate actions 
and formulate ordinances, guidelines, etc. in 
the protection, management, and conservation 
of the marine sanctuaries and MPAs with the 
recommendation of the BFAR. In addition, a 
global positioning system (GPS) will be used 
to identify and delineate the proposed areas. 
The BFAR SCUBA Divers Task Force is 
charged to undertake such duty as well as the 
trained NGOs.
Marine R eserves and Fish Sanctuaries
Fisheries of all kinds in the country are 
near or have surpassed sustainable levels of 
catch. Most of the over-fished are high-value 
fishes and the volume and economic 
importance of such are declining. In some 
cases where fish catch volume is high, 
composition has changed to a lower-value of 
catch because of the changes in the ecological
make-up of fishery. The BFAR and the Local 
Government units have deemed it important 
to establish marine reserves and fish 
sanctuaries to rehabilitate, regenerate, manage 
and protect the remaining fishery and marine 
resources.
Site Selection
“Provided however, that in the 
Municipal waters, the concerned LGU in 
consultation with the FARMCs may establish 
fishery refuge and sanctuaries: The FARMCs 
may also recommend fishery refuge and 
sanctuaries: Provided, further, that at least 
fifteen percent (15%)where applicable of the 
total coastal areas in each municipality shall 
be identified, based on the best available 
scientific data and in consultation with the 
Department, and automatically designated as 
fish sanctuaries by the LGUs in consultation 
with the concerned FARMCs.”
Section of R.A. 8550 otherwise 
known as “The Fisheries Philippine  
Fisheries Code of 1998”
Social Criteria
1. Site should be identified/ 
recommended by the communityt/FARMC/ 
LGU as validated/assessed by the DA-BFAR 
office to facilitate a well coordinated and fully 
supported by the fisherfolk/stakeholders
2. Should be accessible and 
manageable to the community
3. Existing Fisherfolk Organizations, 
B/MFARMCs and active involvement of the 
LGUs in the proposed site
Ecological Criteria
1. Preferably the proposed site site has 
mangrove stands, seagrass beds, or corals of 
no less than twenty percent (20%) live hard 
coral cover and drop off of slope no less than 
twenty-two degrees (20°)
2. Should be away from river banks, 
creek, ports, shipyard landing or grounding 
area of boats and run-off of no less than (2) 
kilometers
3. Should be away from fish corrals 
and other fixed structures and the like; fishing 
gears of no less than (2) kilometer distance
CP 04 |  69
4. Presence of endangered or 
threatened species in the proposed site is 
preferable
5. The site should be diversified with 
no less than thirty (30) species of fish, 15 
families and 550 individuals per 500 sq. m
6. Should have a good water quality 
free from E. coli, heavy metals and other 
pollutants with horizontal visibility of no less 
than seven (7) meters.
7. Water depth should be from zero 
to no more than two hundred (200) meters
Economic Criteria
1. Should be outside the duly 
designated navigational lanes and not a landing 
or docking area
2. Abutting and adjacent land area 
should not be classified as industrial zone.
An area (10 ha.) with heavily depleted 
demersal/benthic fish stocks, coral, and coral 
reef species will be delineated using a Global 
Positioning System (GPS). Local Government 
Units (LGUs) will be encouraged to formulate 
M unicipal Ordinances with the BFAR 
recommendation and technical assistance to 
enact and strengthen the protection, 
conservation and management of the Marine 
Sanctuary.
Marker buoys will be installed to 
delineate the identified sites for the proposed 
marine reserves and sanctuaries. Fifty (50) 
units of marker buoys (30 cm diameter, orange 
sphere, 8 mm thick) will be used.
■  EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGN
Educational campaigns on coral reef 
conservation, management, and protection as 
well as the management of the marine 
reserves/sanctuaries will be the main topics/ 
subject in the said campaign. These seminars/ 
trainings will be conducted with the 
stakeholders and LGUs based from the 
identified sites/areas by the BFAR. In addition, 
issues on coastal resource management will 
also be tackled.
■  FLOATING LABORATORY
The Laboratory is vital in the conduct 
of research and coral transportation on site.
The Laboratory is designed for “mobility,” a 
working area for coral transportation and 
propagation, a guardhouse and a diving 
platform.
■  LABORATORY
The Construction of a 50 sq. m. 
Laboratory with coral nursery tanks is 
fundamental in the research, conduct of 
experiments, and propagation of corals. The 
Laboratory construction includes 12 aerated 
tanks for coral acclim atization and 
propagation.
■  SERVICE BOATS
A 25-ft multi purpose boat, equipped 
with navigational equipments and GPS will 
be used in the transport of coral fragments for 
transplantation, monitoring, and SCUBA 
Diving activities.
■  ALTERNATIVE LIVELIHOOD 
PROJECTS
6 units of 4m x 5m fish cage will be 
provided for fisherfolk displaced from their 
fishing ground as a consequence in the 
establishment of marine reserves/sanctuaries 
and the coral rehabilitation project. Seminar 
and hands-on training on the culture of high- 
value fish produce will be provided for by the 
BFAR. Revenues from this endeavor will be 
shared by the affected fisherfolk.
■  OTHER PROPOSED PROJECT 
SITES
Out of the 60 sites identified, 
hereunder are the 12 priority sites based on 
the recommendation of the NFARMC and the 
BFAR-RFOs. The fisherfolk and LGUs who 
are willing to support the projects and those 
areas not covered by the Fisheries Resource 
Management Project (FRMP) but needs 
funding assistance for implementation in the 
near future.
7 0  E n h a n c in g  C o a s ta l R e s o u rc e s : A r t i f i c i a l  R e e fs  S ta t io n a ry  F is h in g  G e a r D e s ig n  an d  C o n s tru c t io n  
an d  M a r in e  P ro te c te d  A re a s
Province Municipality
1. Aparri
2. Bataan Mariveles, Samal
3. Bulacan
4. Catanduanes
5. Guimaras Buenavista
6. Antique Semirara
7. Cebu Daanbantayan
8. Southern Leyte Quatro Islas
9. Zamboanga del Norte
10. Cagayan Rizal, Sibuco
11. Camiguin (Reg. IX) Baguio Pt., Camiguin
12. Sarangani (Cotabato City) San Vicente, Sumnanga 
Minanga, Maligay


Coral garden & reef rehabilitation project, the establishment of marine reserves and fish sanctuaries of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the Philippines

Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center, Training Department Institutional Repository

CP 04 |  65CORAL GARDEN & REEF REHABILITATION PROJECT, THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MARINE RESERVES AND FISH SANCTUARIES OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES AND AQUATIC RESOURCES (BFAR) IN THE PHILIPPINESAlma C. Dickson, Pierre Easter L. VelascoBureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, PhilippinesABSTRACTThe vastness of the Philippine waters provides significant supply of food and protein as well as opportunities for development for commercial and municipal fisheries. The utilization of such immense marine resource should be geared along sustainability not only for survival, but also to the country’s increasing population, environm ental degradation, and the s ta te ’s com m itm ent to the Global competitiveness archetype. The establishment of non-fishing areas in marine protected areas would double fish catch in 5 years (Roberts, 2002).■  INTRODUCTIONThe Philippines Marine Resources envelops a total area of 220,000 hectares (including the Exclusive Economic Zone), consisting of 193,400,000 hectares of oceanic or off-shore waters, and 27, 000 sq. km. of coral reef areas. At present, destructive/illegal fishing, pollution, sedimentation and other anthropogenic activities mainly cause the destruction and depletion of the coral reefs. 476,900 metric tons valued at P 13.3 billion are lost from illegal fishing activities every year such as poaching by foreign fishing vessels which resulted to the loss of around 80,000 metric tons of fish and other aquatic products valued at P 2.23 billion and coral reef destruction of 396,900 metric tons valued at P11.07 billion pesos. To date, only 4 percent of the coral reefs in the Philippines remain in excellent condition and 70 percent of which are at high risk from human activities. On the other hand, worldwide concern has been raised in order to save, manage, and protect the fast diminishing coral reef resource.The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) launched an innovative coral reef management and regeneration program: The Coral Gardening and Reef Rehabilitation Project in Tangalan, Aklan, the initial implementing strategy for sustainable fisheries management. The Program seeks topromote alternative livelihood to reduce community pressure on the reefs through “green” coral aquaculture. The BFAR with the LGU of Tangalan, A klan  has identified and delineated the 10 ha. site/area for the said coral rehabilitation and marine resource conservation and protection project. In addition to the 13 identified sites of the NFARMC (National Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Management Council), the BFAR- CO has identified 26 sites from ARMM (Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao) and 21 from BFAR-RFO 2. Overall, 60 sites/ areas has been identified which needs prioritization and assessment as basis for introducing management interventions. To date, over 400 marine reserves and fish sanctuaries have been established all over the country with a total area of 8,313.90 has.■  SIGNIFICANCE OF THE PROJECTThe Nationwide implementation of the establishment of Marine reserves and sanctuaries will protect the coral reefs from further degradation and destruction due to illegal and destructive fishing activities, pollution, sedimentation and human activities. Coastal and Municipal Fisheries has declined its production, from a peak of 1,070,195 (million) m.t. in 1988 to only 924,466 (33.4%) m.t. in 1997. Furthermore, 476,900 metric tons6 6  E n h a n c in g  C o a s ta l R e s o u rc e s : A r t i f i c i a l  R e e fs  S ta t io n a ry  F is h in g  G e a r D e s ig n  an d  C o n s tru c t io n  a n d  M a r in e  P ro te c te d  A re a svalued at P 13.31 Billion pesos are lost to  illegal fishing activities. This is broken down as follows: poaching by foreign fishing vessels at 80,000 metric tons valued at 2.23 Billion pesos; and coral reef destruction due to blast and cyanide fishing at 396,900 metric tons valued at P 11.07 Billion pesos.“Coral Garden and Reef Rehabilitation Project o f the BFAR”The BFAR SCUBA Divers Task Force in cooperation with the LGU of Tangalan, Aklan, and the BFAR-NMFDC launched the First of its kind Coral Garden and Reef Rehabilitation Project to rehabilitate, manage and protect the said Coral Reef by establishing a Marine Reserve and deploy ARs in the said Municipality which, upon its successful implementation shall be intended in other priority areas.A survey conducted by the BFAR SCUBA Divers Task Force yielded 12.09% of live corals in Puntod reef is (table 1), an alarming decline compared to the previous survey conducted by SEAFDEC (1998), which registered 58.4% live coral cover. Furthermore, dead corals registered at 27.62, a distressing increase compared to 12.8% as recorded by SEAFDEC (1998).Table 1. Percent Cover of Major Benthic Lifeform Categories in Puntod Reef, Tangalan, AklanLifeform Categories Percent Cover (% )Live Corals 12.09Dead Corals 27.62Algae 1.545Other Fauna 8.287Abiotics 50.43The grim scenario of the coral reef of Tangalan, Aklan calls for immediate intervention. The rapid rate of destruction/degradation will ultimately wipe out the coral reefs by the time the year-ends.The BFAR SCUBA Divers Task Force, Tangalan, Aklan LGU, and the BFAR-NMFDC is charged to rehabilitate, manage and protect the said Coral Reef by establishing a Marine Reserve and deploy ARs in the said site in Brgy. Jawili, Tangalan, Aklan.Another Twelve (12) sites all over the country have also been identified by the BFAR that needs immediate intervention. The alarming rate of decline and diminishing of fish caught and coral reef species respectively has raised the concern of both the stakeholders and LGUs of the provinces and municipalities but such undertakings though a priority concern on resource conservation and management are at stake in view of the absence of funding requirements, hence the need for grants in aid to support its successful implementation.■  OBJECTIVES:General1. To conserve and initiate the rehabilitation of damaged reefs in the fish sanctuary in the Philippines initially in Puntod Reef, Tangalan, Aklan2. To uplift the standard of living conditions of the fisherfolk in the local fishing communitiesSpecific Objectives1. To concentrate marine organisms to allow for more efficient but selective and regulated fishing activities2. To protect small/juvenile organisms and nursery areas from destructive fishing activities3. Increase the natural productivity eventually by supplying new habitats for sessile or permanently attached organisms and by allowing the establishment of an associated food chain4. To create habitats and stimulate natural reefs for desired target species5. Restore dead or degraded coralreefs6. Generate income through tourism7. To educate the primary stakeholders in the local fishing communities in Tangalan, Aklan about coral reef conservation and rehabilitation and build their capabilities to monitor and manage their coral reef resources.CP 04 |  67■  DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECTThe Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has formed and organized the BFAR SCUBA Divers Task Force with a primary purpose to m onitor, manage, safeguard the Coral Reef Resources of the Philippines and to establish Marine Reserves and Fish Sanctuaries. Initially  it will im plem ent the Coral Garden and Reef Rehabilitation Project in Tangalan, Aklan to be followed by other areas upon availability of funding and technical support to pursue said activities. The components of the Project are as follows:Artificial ReefsFifty (50) modules or eight hundred (800) of concrete building blocks (1 module= 16 units, 2m x 0.20m x 0.15m) will serve as artificial reefs. The artificial reefs will be installed/sited within the marine park/ sanctuaries. The installation will be conducted on fine weather condition; water current is moderate, and good visibility.1. An ocular survey was conducted to identify suitable/viable sites/area for the installation of Artificial Reef modules/units. The Manta Tow method was utilized in the survey to facilitate a fast and reliable assessment of the reef.2. The Identified site will be marked with buoys based on the recorded coordinates in the initial survey conducted last Aug. 2-8, 2002.3. The total area of the proposed LGU marine sanctuary is 370 hectare and is 5.13 kilometers from Casa Blanca, Brgy. Jawili, Tangalan, Aklan. Furthermore, the proposed BFAR Coral Garden has a total area of 15.36 ha. and lies in Puntod-Tungod reef (11? 49.00 N, 122? 16.30 E). Visibility is relatively good and adequate sunlight penetrates to the bottom in all parts of the reef. It was observed though, that a strong surface current surges in the later part of the day.Coral FragmentationThe one-square meter quadrant shall be the basic experimental unit because it isretractable and because ecological processes taking place on this scale can be readily interpreted using human scales of perception. It is also easy to replicate.1. At least three (3) colonies of coral species will be transplanted to each experimental unit. The particular species to be used will depend on what is available for surrounding reef patches. Colonies form different species will be randomly within each experimental unit.2. Coral Fragm ents (will be introduced into selected sites by transporting them in well-aerated water filled containers on-board a banca. Whenever possible, whole colonies rather portions of colonies, will be used. These will be attached to a firm substrate by cement or by tying with plastic coated wires.Colonies harboring obvious signs of disease will not be transplanted3. Growth and survival of the fragments will be assessed periodically (once in every 4 months)4. Survival will be assessed by counting the nos. of remaining healthy coral colonies and dividing the nos. by the original nos. of coral colonies at the start of the experiment5. Recruitment of reef fishes and other invertebrates into the patches created by the coral transplants will also be observed6. Indicators/criteria of success in rehabilitation efforts with the proposed project will be:6.1 Survival and significant growth of the transplanted coral colonies6.2 Absence of damage to the source patches from which coral transplants are obtained6.3 Significant enhancement of the diversity and abundance of fish and other invertebratesSite SelectionThe selection of the proposed coral garden site/area were based on the following criteria:1. At least 500m away from naturalreefs6 8  E n h a n c in g  C o a s ta l R e s o u rc e s : A r t i f i c i a l  R e e fs  S ta t io n a ry  F is h in g  G e a r D e s ig n  an d  C o n s tru c t io n  a n d  M a r in e  P ro te c te d  A re a s2. Near an alternative food source (i.e. sea grass beds)3. Constructed on a barren and stable substrate area of flat or gently sloping bottom of relatively good visibility.4. At depths of 15m to 25m, protected form wave action but still accessible to local fishermen.5. If coastal management project is already on going, or if site is a successful marine protected area6. Absence of sources of chronic damage to reefs. Otherwise, reef rehabilitation will not succeed.7. Relatively protected from waveaction8. Deployment of Artificial reefs (AR’s) may be considered in areas where there is no stable substrate available9. Accessible and manageable to the fisherfolk/stakeholdersSurvey and AssessmentA survey of the proposed site will be conducted using the Line Intercept Transect Method (LIT). This w ill determ ine the condition/status of the marine benthos communities (English et. al. 1997). Furthermore, the results of the survey will help stakeholders determine the appropriate actions and formulate ordinances, guidelines, etc. in the protection, management, and conservation of the marine sanctuaries and MPAs with the recommendation of the BFAR. In addition, a global positioning system (GPS) will be used to identify and delineate the proposed areas. The BFAR SCUBA Divers Task Force is charged to undertake such duty as well as the trained NGOs.Marine R eserves and Fish SanctuariesFisheries of all kinds in the country are near or have surpassed sustainable levels of catch. Most of the over-fished are high-value fishes and the volume and economic importance of such are declining. In some cases where fish catch volume is high, composition has changed to a lower-value of catch because of the changes in the ecologicalmake-up of fishery. The BFAR and the Local Government units have deemed it important to establish marine reserves and fish sanctuaries to rehabilitate, regenerate, manage and protect the remaining fishery and marine resources.Site Selection“Provided however, that in the Municipal waters, the concerned LGU in consultation with the FARMCs may establish fishery refuge and sanctuaries: The FARMCs may also recommend fishery refuge and sanctuaries: Provided, further, that at least fifteen percent (15%)where applicable of the total coastal areas in each municipality shall be identified, based on the best available scientific data and in consultation with the Department, and automatically designated as fish sanctuaries by the LGUs in consultation with the concerned FARMCs.”Section of R.A. 8550 otherwise known as “The Fisheries Philippine  Fisheries Code of 1998”Social Criteria1. Site should be identified/ recommended by the communityt/FARMC/ LGU as validated/assessed by the DA-BFAR office to facilitate a well coordinated and fully supported by the fisherfolk/stakeholders2. Should be accessible and manageable to the community3. Existing Fisherfolk Organizations, B/MFARMCs and active involvement of the LGUs in the proposed siteEcological Criteria1. Preferably the proposed site site has mangrove stands, seagrass beds, or corals of no less than twenty percent (20%) live hard coral cover and drop off of slope no less than twenty-two degrees (20°)2. Should be away from river banks, creek, ports, shipyard landing or grounding area of boats and run-off of no less than (2) kilometers3. Should be away from fish corrals and other fixed structures and the like; fishing gears of no less than (2) kilometer distanceCP 04 |  694. Presence of endangered or threatened species in the proposed site is preferable5. The site should be diversified with no less than thirty (30) species of fish, 15 families and 550 individuals per 500 sq. m6. Should have a good water quality free from E. coli, heavy metals and other pollutants with horizontal visibility of no less than seven (7) meters.7. Water depth should be from zero to no more than two hundred (200) metersEconomic Criteria1. Should be outside the duly designated navigational lanes and not a landing or docking area2. Abutting and adjacent land area should not be classified as industrial zone.An area (10 ha.) with heavily depleted demersal/benthic fish stocks, coral, and coral reef species will be delineated using a Global Positioning System (GPS). Local Government Units (LGUs) will be encouraged to formulate M unicipal Ordinances with the BFAR recommendation and technical assistance to enact and strengthen the protection, conservation and management of the Marine Sanctuary.Marker buoys will be installed to delineate the identified sites for the proposed marine reserves and sanctuaries. Fifty (50) units of marker buoys (30 cm diameter, orange sphere, 8 mm thick) will be used.■  EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGNEducational campaigns on coral reef conservation, management, and protection as well as the management of the marine reserves/sanctuaries will be the main topics/ subject in the said campaign. These seminars/ trainings will be conducted with the stakeholders and LGUs based from the identified sites/areas by the BFAR. In addition, issues on coastal resource management will also be tackled.■  FLOATING LABORATORYThe Laboratory is vital in the conduct of research and coral transportation on site.The Laboratory is designed for “mobility,” a working area for coral transportation and propagation, a guardhouse and a diving platform.■  LABORATORYThe Construction of a 50 sq. m. Laboratory with coral nursery tanks is fundamental in the research, conduct of experiments, and propagation of corals. The Laboratory construction includes 12 aerated tanks for coral acclim atization and propagation.■  SERVICE BOATSA 25-ft multi purpose boat, equipped with navigational equipments and GPS will be used in the transport of coral fragments for transplantation, monitoring, and SCUBA Diving activities.■  ALTERNATIVE LIVELIHOOD PROJECTS6 units of 4m x 5m fish cage will be provided for fisherfolk displaced from their fishing ground as a consequence in the establishment of marine reserves/sanctuaries and the coral rehabilitation project. Seminar and hands-on training on the culture of high- value fish produce will be provided for by the BFAR. Revenues from this endeavor will be shared by the affected fisherfolk.■  OTHER PROPOSED PROJECT SITESOut of the 60 sites identified, hereunder are the 12 priority sites based on the recommendation of the NFARMC and the BFAR-RFOs. The fisherfolk and LGUs who are willing to support the projects and those areas not covered by the Fisheries Resource Management Project (FRMP) but needs funding assistance for implementation in the near future.7 0  E n h a n c in g  C o a s ta l R e s o u rc e s : A r t i f i c i a l  R e e fs  S ta t io n a ry  F is h in g  G e a r D e s ig n  an d  C o n s tru c t io n  an d  M a r in e  P ro te c te d  A re a sProvince Municipality1. Aparri2. Bataan Mariveles, Samal3. Bulacan4. Catanduanes5. Guimaras Buenavista6. Antique Semirara7. Cebu Daanbantayan8. Southern Leyte Quatro Islas9. Zamboanga del Norte10. Cagayan Rizal, Sibuco11. Camiguin (Reg. IX) Baguio Pt., Camiguin12. Sarangani (Cotabato City) San Vicente, Sumnanga Minanga, Maligay

Coral Garden and Reef Rehabilitation Project, the Establishment of Marine Reserves and Fish Sanctuaries of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the Philippines

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Coral garden & reef rehabilitation project, the establishment of marine reserves and fish sanctuaries of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the Philippines

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