March 10 – 14, 2025, Maria, Siquijor – To further strengthen local capacity in marine resource management, the Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation (CCEF), with the support of rrreefs, successfully conducted PADI Open Water Scuba Diving Training for five staff members from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Maria, Siquijor. This activity is part of CCEF and rrreef’s broader initiative to enhance community involvement in marine conservation and ensure long-term monitoring for the Minalulan Marine Protected Area (MPA) Artificial Clay Reef.
Building Technical Capacity for Reef Monitoring
The training equipped participants with essential diving skills and certifications—covering safety protocols, equipment handling, underwater communication, buoyancy control, and navigation. These skills are critical not only for diver safety but also for the effective monitoring and management of Siquijor’s marine ecosystems. The newly certified LGU-Maria divers are now prepared to monitor the artificial clay reef within the Minalulan Marine Protected Area.
A Community-Driven Approach to Reef Restoration
The partnership between CCEF, LGU-Maria, and rrreefs highlights the power of community-led efforts in marine conservation. The certified divers will augment the municipality’s technical team and serve as dedicated stewards of the artificial clay reef. Their direct involvement enables real-time data collection and timely interventions, ensuring the reef’s long-term resilience.
Looking Ahead: Empowering More Communities
This initiative is just the beginning. By equipping local communities with essential skills and empowering them to take charge of marine monitoring, we’re setting the stage for real, sustainable conservation outcomes. With rrreefs’ support and CCEF’s commitment to coastal empowerment, this tested strategy is poised to expand across the Philippines. As more communities embrace marine stewardship, their collective efforts will create lasting change and a resilient future for our oceans.
Get Involved
At CCEF, we believe that conservation is a shared responsibility. Whether you live by the coast or inland, supporting efforts like these makes a real difference in the health of our oceans. Join us in empowering communities, protecting marine ecosystems, and ensuring that future generations inherit a healthy planet.
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