March 24 – 26, 2025, Parañaque City, Metro Manila – CCEF recently took part in the 3rd National Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA) Workshop, contributing to vital discussions on strengthening the protection of Marine Key Biodiversity Areas (MKBAs) in the Philippines. The workshop was organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in collaboration with the Philippine 30×30 Project, Marine Environment and Resources Foundation, Inc. (MERF), Marine Protected Area Support Network (MSN), Conservation International Philippines, Oceana, Rare, WWF-Philippines, and other conservation partners.
As the Philippines works toward the global 30×30 target—protecting 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030—the workshop focused on reviewing and updating the country’s Marine Key Biodiversity Areas (MKBAs).
🔹 136 proposed MKBAs have been identified, covering 217,098 km², yet only 13% of these areas are currently under protection.
🔹 The workshop aimed to determine how these MKBAs can be effectively protected and managed to meet the 30×30 goal.
🔹 Discussions covered consolidated MKBA data, existing and potential threats, and strategies for long-term conservation.
CCEF contributed by sharing insights from its marine conservation initiatives, particularly in Marine Protected Area (MPA) management, highlighting the importance of locally managed protection efforts in achieving national conservation goals.
Following the KBA Workshop, CCEF, as one of the Marine Protected Area Support Network (MSN) partners, attended a meeting on March 27 to discuss the Para el Mar preparations. The meeting provided updates on the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among conservation partners and other key initiatives aimed at recognizing and strengthening outstanding Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) across the country.
The insights gained from these events lay the groundwork for more effective and sustainable conservation efforts. Protecting 30% of our land and seas by 2030 is more than just a global target—it is a massive step toward restoring ecosystems, safeguarding biodiversity, and strengthening the resilience of coastal and upland communities. By ensuring that key areas receive the protection they need, we are securing a future where both people and nature can thrive.
While progress has been made, the real challenge lies in turning commitments into action—strengthening policies, mobilizing resources, and fostering collaboration at every level.
CCEF will continue to play an active role in this effort, advocating for stronger protections, fostering collaboration, and supporting local initiatives that contribute to long-term conservation. By working together, we can take meaningful steps toward ensuring that our oceans remain productive, resilient, and full of life for generations to come.
