EDITORIAL - A success story

Panglao Island in Bohol is the latest success story in a nation that is awakening to the benefits of preser-ving its rich marine resources. Credit goes to a former German army officer, Holger Horn, who has shown locals in Bohol what rewards are in store for eco-tourism and the preservation of rich marine life. Taking the cue from a foreigner, the government must encourage similar programs in other coastal areas, where natural marine habitats continue to be destroyed at an alarming pace.

Eco-tourism is not new in this country; the people of Palawan learned many years ago that their province could benefit more from eco-tourism than destructive fishing. Environmental advocates keep watch over the world-renowned Tubbataha reefs, and private resort owners stand guard over coral reefs elsewhere in the province that serve as marine sanctuaries. On Boracay Island, locals and resort owners know that their livelihood depends on keeping the popular tourist destination pristine and eco-friendly.

Yet corals continue to be harvested and reefs depleted at an alarming rate, according to environmental advocates. The continuing depletion of coral reefs through harvesting and destructive forms of fishing is one of the biggest causes of the plunge in fish catch of both marginal fisherfolk and commercial fishing companies.

Environmental advocates, a number of them foreigners like Holger Horn, have stepped in to preserve marine sanctuaries. As Horn himself points out, however, much remains to be done.

Even with limited resources, the government must do its part. Local executives and the barangay network can be tapped to educate coastal communities about the benefits of preserving the marine ecosystem. The national government can tap the private sector for help in developing other areas with potentials for marine eco-tourism. Fishing communities need not feel that their livelihood is threatened. But they must be made aware that harvesting of corals and destructive forms of fishing will ultimately spell the end of their livelihood. The government can draw on enough success stories to educate coastal communities about the rewards of preserving the environment.