DA, OceanX partner for marine research, sustainability

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has partnered with global ocean exploration non-profit OceanX to advance exploration and assessment of the health of the country’s fisheries resources.

The DA and OceanX signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enable the latter to assess the health and diversity of fisheries, and therefore marine food resources of Philippine seas using its state-of-the-art research vessel, OceanXplorer.

The MOU marks a significant step toward strengthening collaborative efforts to deepen the understanding and preservation of the world’s oceans, according to the DA.

Under the agreement, the two parties will work together to advance shared goals of improving the study, protection and sustainable development of marine ecosystems.

The collaboration, the DA said, is expected to bring cutting-edge scientific exploration to the country, with an emphasis on characterizing the Philippines’ rich marine ecology.

“The data we gather will provide invaluable insights into our marine resources, our vast coastline, and the unique biodiversity we hold. It will help us devise better strategies for preserving and optimizing these resources for future generations,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.

OceanX co-CEO Mark Dalio said the partnership would yield long-term impact not only in understanding marine ecosystems but also in supporting the communities that depend on them.

“At OceanX, we believe that cutting-edge technology combined with meaningful collaboration can unlock the mysteries of the ocean and provide actionable insights for sustainable resource management,“ Dalio said.

“We look forward to working with the many scientists, policymakers and community stakeholders, aimed to inspire stewardship of the oceans while equipping future generations with the knowledge and tools to ensure their sustainability,” he added.

The DA said the partnership with OceanX aligns with the country’s growing commitment to marine conservation and sustainable resource management.

“By leveraging OceanX’s expertise and technological capabilities, both organizations hope to accelerate the understanding of the Philippines’ vital marine ecosystems, crucial to both local livelihoods and global environmental health,” the agency said.