The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will conduct integrated research on biodiversity conservation at Recto Bank and Rizal Reef in April, following a similar study on Pag-asa Island earlier this year. According to DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, these research efforts aim to assess marine life and ecosystems in the West Philippine Sea, which supplies around 27% of the country’s commercial fish and 30% of its coral reefs.

“We expect to discover more and measure the Philippine treasures in the ecosystems of the West Philippine Sea, a big part of our natural capital for the present and the future,” Loyzaga said.

The DENR also plans to establish a marine scientific research station in Pag-asa Island, complementing its existing and upcoming stations at Tubbataha Reef, Snake Island in Palawan, and the Verde Island Passage.

“A leading and critical example of our strategic bilateral collaboration is our work with the government of Australia, under the new strategic partnership relationship, in developing science and policy leaders and scholars in ocean science and maritime security,” Loyzaga explained.

At the same forum, Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Hae Kyong Yu reiterated her government’s support for maritime security in the Philippines.

“This is no area where we can afford to have just half of the population participating in that. We need all the brilliant minds, including women, coming forward to solve this challenging issue for the world,” Yu said.

Yu said over the years, many women experts and leaders have propelled the maritime sector forward, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations. However, there is still a need for more female representation in this sector.

“Across the world, women are driving change as policy makers, maritime security experts, and community leaders, and yet women remain underrepresented. We’ve got to fix that. This is not just a matter of fairness; it’s a missed opportunity,” she added.

Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines Spokesperson Col. Francel Taborlupa highlighted the importance of external partnerships. “We are merely defending our territory, which is backed by international laws,” she said, noting that collaboration with allies like Australia helps the Philippines ensure a “free and open Indo-Pacific.”