Communities in Panaon Island are embracing a shift toward science-based, sustainable livelihoods as they await the signing of the Panaon Island Protected Seascape bill. This crucial legislation aims to safeguard the island’s rich marine environment and secure a sustainable future for its residents.
The Panaon Island Protected Seascape bill, approved by both chambers of Congress, now awaits President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signature. Once enacted, this law will formalize long-term marine protection, bolster enforcement against illegal fishing, and establish a framework for community-driven conservation and livelihood programs. Local leaders and environmental advocates are hopeful this will mark a turning point for the region.
Science-Based Livelihoods for Coastal Communities
For generations, the four towns of San Francisco, Pintuyan, Liloan, and San Ricardo on Panaon Island have depended heavily on fishing for sustenance and income. However, dwindling fish stocks and increasing threats from illegal fishing and environmental degradation have prompted calls for sustainable alternatives.
“Ang amo panawagan sa mahal na Presidente, sa madali imo nang mapirmahan ang maong balaodon para ang among Panaon Island masiguro ang pagprotihir sa atong kadagatan, sa atong mga resources,” said Pintuyan Mayor Ricarte Estrella, emphasizing the urgency of addressing illegal fishing.
He added, “Gani last year naa mi tulo ka mananagat na dili taga-amo, taga-laing area nga naghimo og mga ilegal na pagpanagat.” This highlights the growing pressure on the island’s marine resources from outsiders exploiting its waters unlawfully.
In response, local governments, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology–Southern Leyte, have launched alternative livelihood programs under the province’s “Blue Economy” initiative. These efforts include sea cucumber ranching, sandfish cultivation, and squid processing—activities designed to ease the burden on fish stocks while providing new income sources.
“Panaon embracing the Blue Economy is giving science, technology and innovation the opportunity to turn our seas into sources of hope, livelihood and lasting progress for the people of Southern Leyte,” noted Dr. Ramil Uy, provincial science and technology director. These sustainable ventures are integral to the province’s SPEED-SL strategy, which combines innovation with community empowerment and environmental stewardship.
Community-Led Protection Rooted in Science
Consultations with local residents have been pivotal in shaping the Panaon Island Protected Seascape Management Plan. This plan will guide conservation efforts and livelihood programs once the bill becomes law, ensuring that protection measures are both effective and community-driven.
The bill seeks to designate Panaon Island officially as a protected seascape under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS). This status would create sustainable use zones and empower local governments and communities to govern marine resources based on scientific data and traditional knowledge.
Once signed, the law will institutionalize protection efforts, reinforce enforcement against illegal fishing, and promote alternative livelihoods that align with environmental conservation goals.
“Panaon Island is living proof that sustainable livelihoods and healthy marine ecosystems can go hand in hand,” said a representative from an international ocean conservation group. “By equipping communities with science-based alternatives to their main livelihoods, we not only protect biodiversity but also empower people to thrive without harming the very ecosystems they depend on.”
Recognized as one of the Philippines’ most biodiverse marine areas, Panaon Island’s coral reefs support vital fish populations and endangered species. A 2019 rapid assessment revealed that while reef health is among the highest nationwide, it remains highly vulnerable to overfishing and destructive practices.
Following the House of Representatives’ approval in November 2023 and the Senate’s transmission of its version in July 2025, the bill has garnered strong backing from environmentalists, local officials, and scientific communities. Over 50 stakeholders, including fisherfolk and youth leaders, have urged the President to sign the bill promptly to safeguard both biodiversity and livelihoods amid escalating environmental threats.
For more news and updates on Panaon Island Protected Seascape, visit Filipinokami.com.
