Strengthen Coral-Rich Marine Protected Areas Archives - Page 4 of 5 - Oceana Philippines

Protecting Those Who Protect Our Seas

Planning the safety and health protocols was crucial to making the Panaon expedition possible. Let’s learn how measures were kept in place and followed strictly through Dr. Marisse Nepomuceno, medical consultant for the safety of the expedition team against COVID-19 threats.  Is this your first time supporting an expedition? If yes, how is it different from other situations where you provide … Read more

What are Corals?

  This post was written by Alvin Simon, Oceana Marine Scientist. Corals are living organisms; in fact, they are colonies of animals that build up most reefs. They are made up of hundreds to thousands of tiny creatures called polyps. These polyps excrete calcium carbonate which surrounds their soft bodies and create the rock-like structure … Read more

Danny’s Dive Diaries: October 18-27, 2020

October 18  Excited for my first dive in Panaon Island. We have with us a team of scientists who will do the coral and fish survey. They are known for their work in the field for gathering data to support the establishment and management of marine protected areas. We also have with us a documentation team composed of well-known underwater photographers, videographers, and … Read more

Scientist Spotlight: Dr. Vic Ticzon

Dive deep into the minds and hearts of our scientists on board MV Discovery Palawan. For our second issue, we are featuring the Expedition Team’s coral reef specialist, Dr. Vic Ticzon.  Dr. Victor S. Ticzon BS Biology, University of the Philippines – Los Baños MS Environmental Science, University of the Philippines – Los Baños PhD Marine Science, University of the Philippines – Diliman   What made you decide to be a marine scientist?   I have logged … Read more

Expedition Diaries Part 2

  Biophysical Assessment: The Reefs of Panaon  Coral reefs are home to 25% of all marine species. Under certain conditions, corals can live on indefinitely but they are sensitive to global warming. It also leads to coral bleaching which is a result of the sudden temperature change in the water. If the trend of global coral destruction continues, it is estimated that coral reefs may … Read more

Panaon Island Expedition Captain’s Log: October 22 to 27, 2020

October 22 (Thursday)   When the team came up after their dive, I was delighted to hear them said that Panaon is their favorite site, so far. They were so happy with the diversity of corals in the area.  October 23 (Friday)   Today was a perfect day to dive. Sunny. Very calm waters. Light breeze.   We started in Barangay Punta’s sanctuary. There were a few small fishing boats … Read more

Scientist Spotlight: Dr. Badi Samaniego

Dive deep into the minds and hearts of our scientists on board MV Discovery Palawan. We are featuring the Expedition Team’s Assessment Leader, Dr. Badi Samaniego, for our maiden issue.   Dr. Badi R. Samaniego   UPLB BS Agriculture (Major in Horticulture) UPLB MS Zoology (Minor in Environmental Science) UPLB PhD Environmental Science   What made you decide to be a marine scientist?   … Read more

Expedition Diaries: October 16-17

October 16: COVID-19 Safety Measures Aboard the Expedition Ship   To ensure everyone’s health and safety aboard the expedition ship (MV Discovery Palawan) bound for Panaon, strict COVID-19 health protocols are being implemented at every stage of the journey. Beforehand, all crew and members of the expedition team have undergone COVID-19 testing procedures. Onboard, regular disinfection procedures … Read more