Public Hearing held for Anilao Marine Sanctuary

A public hearing was conducted last February 5, 2012 at Barangay Dangulaan, Anilao, Iloilo by

Sangguniang Bayan of Anilao for the proposed Anilao Marine Sanctuary The area covering 36.0

hectares consists of two delicate ecosystems; the Anilao Coral Garden (4.0 has) and the Sea

Grass Reserv e(32.0 hectares).

The crafting of this proposed ordinance was started in early 2010 and was

finalized in the late 2011. The public hearing was conducted to get the sentiments of

the affected communities and stakeholders. Affected fisherfolks aired their

sentiments but the SB stand firm on their proposal with the assurance that assistance

will be given to affected ones.

Vice Mayor June Sargado headed the public hearing together with the

Committee Chairman SB Member Warlito Araneta and other SB members of Anilao.

Hibotkan Rock Sanctuary Visited

The 25.0 hectare Hibotkan Rock Sanctuary in Banate, Iloilo was visited by no less than the Municipal Mayor, Hon. Renerose "Dot" Caborubias last January 2012. Together with the BBBRMCI staff, Mayor Dot inspected the area to have a first hand observation of the protected area.

As observed, growth of corals have improved but still there are evident signs of encroachment by fishers. The 25.0 hectare was declared as a "no take zone" area by the Municipality of Banate.

The ordinance needs review to allow tourism activities in designated areas as soon as zoning of the sanctuary is approved by the local sanggunian.

The group headed by Mayor Dot planted mangrove seedlings in the land portion of the sanctuary to test the viability of mangrove survival in the area.

Research Congress held in Banate, Iloilo

A Research Congress, a collaboration between the Philippine Science High School-Western Visayas Campus, the BBBRMCI, Municipality of Banate, Banate Central Elementary School and Pfizer was held last February 18, 2012 in Banate Central Elementary School.

The Congress aimed to present the results of the researches conducted by PhilSci students to the community. Fisherfolks, pupils, BFARMCs, local leaders and teachers were invited to attend this Congress. Student researchers each presented the results as in a market scene and three (3) selected researches were presented in a small room for selected audience.

The event was successful with the help of the supporting agencies.

Sea Turtle Rescued in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo

Another sea turtle was rescued in Barangay Santiago, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.

This year, smaller sized sea turtle like this were rescued in Banate and Barotac Bay. Thanks to vigilant fishing communities for their awareness on protecting our aquatic wildlife.

The animal was immediately returned to the sea with the help of the fisherfolks.