The Gerry Roxas Foundation (GRF), in collaboration with the Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation (CCEF) and the Municipality of Bien Unido, recently hosted an activity titled “Evaluation of MPA Governance Using the Management Effectiveness Assessment Tool (MEAT) in INSPIRE Project Sites.” Held on June 13-14, 2024, this event concentrated on evaluating the governance status of 15 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) under the jurisdiction of Bien Unido, a municipality situated within the Danajon Bank.
These MPAs span several barangays, including Bilangbilangan Daku, Bilangbilangan Diot, Hingotanan East, Hingotanan West, Liberty, Malingin, Mandawa, Maomawan, Nueva Esperanza, Nueva Estrella, Pinamgo, Poblacion, Puerto San Pedro, Sagasa, and Tuboran.
Despite the majority of MPAs being established for over 22 years, the assessment revealed significant opportunities for enhancement. The evaluation, conducted with active involvement from the management bodies of each MPA and facilitated by technical experts from CCEF, GRF, the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO), and the Local Government Unit of Bien Unido, highlighted areas needing improvement.
Key findings indicated that there is a pressing need for a management planning workshop. The assessment pointed out specific deficiencies in MPA management plans, enforcement strategies, and Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) plans. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving the effectiveness of these protected areas and ensuring their continued sustainability.
This evaluation represents a significant step forward in strengthening the governance and management of Bien Unido’s MPAs, setting the stage for targeted improvements that will help protect these essential marine ecosystems for future generations. These targeted improvements will not only enhance the protection of these marine ecosystems but also contribute to the overall health and resilience of the Danajon Bank Double Barrier Reef.
