Authorities in Bohol province are investigating the extent of damage to coral reefs in Barangay Tangnan, Panglao, a popular diving destination. The investigation was triggered by reports circulating on social media. A joint team of representatives from various agencies, including the Provincial Environment Management Office, legal office, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Department of Tourism, conducted a dive and assessed the damage.
CEBU CITY – Officials in Bohol province are investigating the damage to coral reefs in Barangay Tangnan, Panglao , a popular diving destination. Governor Aris Aumentado has issued a memorandum establishing an inter-agency task force to conduct a joint site inspection of the reported coral damage in the Napaling area. The team's main objective is to determine the extent of the damage, which was initially brought to light through social media on January 4th.
The task force comprises representatives from various agencies, including the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO), Bohol Provincial Legal Office, DENR-CENRO Tagbilaran, DENR EMB-PEMU Bohol, BFAR, Department of Tourism (DOT)-Region 7, Panglao Municipal Tourism Office (MTO), and Panglao Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO). Abelio A. Arbilo, head of the Panglao MENRO, revealed that he was unaware of the damaged corals until the social media posts began circulating. The Panglao MENRO conducted a dive on January 5th and discovered the damaged table corals located outside the Neptune Garden dive site, near Almira Resort and Alturas Hatchery.The assessment revealed that the damaged corals were found at a depth of 11 to 13 meters. Three large broken table corals and three smaller ones were observed, some resting on fabricated steel bars and rocks. Coral rubble was also found near the steel structures, and the team noted signs of coral regeneration, indicating that the damage had occurred some time ago. The assessment team recommended several actions, including regular monitoring of the rehabilitated coral area, evaluation of the stability of the fabricated steel structures, and their relocation if found unstable. They also proposed placing marker buoys to prevent further disturbance caused by divers, boats, or other activities. Arbilo urged the public to report environmental issues to the appropriate authorities instead of posting them on social media. He emphasized the need for verified reports to ensure that appropriate action can be taken
CORAL REEF DAMAGE BOHOL PANGLAO MARINE LIFE ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATION
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Panglao, Bohol Ranks Among Skyscanner's Top Trending Destinations for 2025Panglao, Bohol has been recognized as one of Skyscanner's top 10 trending destinations for 2025, experiencing a 77 percent surge in flight searches in the first half of 2024. Known for its pristine beaches, Chocolate Hills, and eco-sites like the Loboc River and Tarsier Sanctuary, Panglao offers a range of attractions and accommodations for tourists.
Read more »
Bohol Governor Urges Cooperation to Contain African Swine FeverBohol Governor Aris Aumentado has appealed for public cooperation in combating the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) after confirmed cases in a provincial town. While recent measures have prevented further outbreaks, the governor emphasized the need for collective action to protect the local hog industry and economy.
Read more »
Jumbo lechon na 90 kilos ang bigat, inihanda sa BoholNamangha ang mga netizen sa laki ng lechon na inihanda para sa pamamanhikan na ginanap sa Talibon, Bohol.
Read more »
Ubay town in Bohol under state of calamity due to ASF casesLatest Philippine news from GMA News and 24 Oras. News, weather updates and livestreaming on Philippine politics, regions, showbiz, lifestyle, science and tech.
Read more »
Police Nab Major Drug Supplier in BoholBohol police apprehended a high-value individual suspected of being a major source of illegal drugs in the province.
Read more »
P14-M shabu recovered in BoholCEBU CITY – A huge amount of suspected shabu was seized from a 26-year-old man in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Dao, Dauis town, Bohol province past midnight on Friday, Jan. 10.
Read more »