Tacloban, which has been known as the pathway of typhoons from the Eastern seaboard, now has a prominent spot in the Philippine map of tourist destinations that uphold ecological integrity above all else.

Panaon Island is an island between the archipelago of the Visayas and Mindanao, down south and is host to very good coral cover that surpasses the national average, home to whale shark, sea turtle and other important marine species, and a favorite stopover of endangered Philippine duck.

Assistant regional director of the National Economic and Development Authority Jam Colas-Villaber believes that the declaration of Panaon Island as a protected seascape through the legislation in the Senate is a crucial step to safeguard the preservation and sustainable management of the island’s unique marine biodiversity for future generations.

According to locals, protecting Panaon Island means protecting their livelihood.

Community leaders, regional officials, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens are rallying behind a crucial legislative effort to designate Panaon Island in Southern Leyte as a protected area under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act, RA 11038.

Amid escalating threats from illegal fishing practices, crown of thorns infestation, pollution and the adverse effects of climate change, supporters have been calling for the swift Senate approval which is critical to safeguarding the island’s exceptional marine biodiversity, upon which many residents depend for their livelihood.

Oceana, a leading marine conservation organization has facilitated consultations and capacity-building sessions with local communities across Panaon Island.

During the discussion, the extent of illegal activities such as compressor fishing and night spearfishing in the island, and the serious issue of crown of thorns infestation were raised.

“The immediate approval of this bill is crucial for the sustainable management and long-term protection of Panaon Island,” said Gloria Estenzo Ramos, vice president of Oceana.

“The local fisherfolk are well-versed in what they need to protect their own already. This legislation will empower them through local governance, stronger law enforcement, and ensure that national agencies and local governments can work together to be responsible stewards of these vital resources.”

In November 2023, the House of Representatives passed the bill protecting Panaon Island on its third reading.

Backed by Senator Cynthia Villar and national conservation leaders, the bill’s passage through the Senate would mark a pivotal step in realizing the Philippines’ commitment to the global “30×30” conservation goal: protecting 30 percent of the nation’s terrestrial and marine areas by 2030.