It was recently reported on August 24th, 2013 that the Philippine Army in Antique Province would assist the Department of Science and Technology in its efforts to restore the coral reef in and around Nogas Island.
Army to help restore Nogas Island corals.
SAN JOSE, Antique — Philippine Army soldiers are in Brgy. Nato, Anini-y town, not for battle but to help restore coral reefs in Nogas Island.
“Our presence here must not be misinterpreted” as an indication that the town is “unruly,” said Brig. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID). “We are here to help.” Baladad said the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) asked them to help in its coral reef restoration project.
He said the Army’s role is not limited to peace and order and battle operations. “We also help combat the effects of climate change … and we help people during calamities,” Baladad said during the inauguration of the Coral Reef Restoration Dive Center in Anini-y. The Army commander believed that restoring and protecting coral reefs will eventually benefit the fishing industry.
Fishing is the second largest industry in Antique, and the Cuyo East Pass — reportedly the richest fishing ground in the country — is near it, Baladad said. Along with the rapidly growing population is the need for more fish and other marine resources, he said. “Dahil sa demand na ito, kailangan ang ating corals ay maganda, para dumami ang isda (This demand calls for improving the condition of our corals so the fishes can thrive),” said Baladad.
Also, “there is a need to follow sustainable fishing practices, and we should stop destroying coral reefs,” whose destruction is “aggravated by climate change,” he stressed.
The DOST’s Philippine Council for Agricultural Resources Research and Development, and the 3rd Infantry Division then led by Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr., in January entered into a memorandum of understanding dubbed “Peace Innovation Program” to implement Filipinnovation, the coral restoration program, and the National Tilapia Science Technology Program. The Peace Innovation Program aims to address the national concern on food security and environment, and enhance the competitiveness of the country’s aquaculture and tourism industry.
“This project will go a long way in helping promote social and economic development in Antique, and improving the livelihood of local communities,” Baladad said.
Dr. Filipina Sotto, leader of the coral reef restoration program, said about 25 percent of Nogas Island’s coral reefs were damaged or have deteriorated. About 25,000 coral fragments will be transplanted in the island. Army soldiers were trained to do the transplantation. The project is expected to be completed in December this year, said Sotto, also the head of University of San Carlos’ marine biology section. (PIA–Antique/PN)
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