By: Kate Serrano
Many
problems have plagued Philippine beaches. With the rise in globalization of the
country, one cannot help but think about its altering effects to not only to locals
but more importantly to the marine life down under. Over the years, the
beautiful coral reefs have sadly been depleted by dynamite fishing as local
fishermen regard it as a faster way of earning the big bucks. Little do they
know that coral reefs serve as sanctuaries and spawning grounds of fish and
other marine life? Luckily the government has taken a stand.
The Philippine government has taken measures
to get local fisher folks informed and provided aid in finding alternative ways
of generating income. By educating fishermen of the important roles coral reefs
play in protecting the country from typhoons and hurricanes (which have
recently become a phenomenon) dynamite fishing have slowly become a thing of
the past. In addition, the government has stressed out protecting coral reefs as
having a positive impact on local tourism –it means more attraction for divers
and snorkeling tourists; in a country where tourists abound not only because
of the inexpensive travel and the hospitality of the locals, it pays to take
care of natural resources.
The
Philippines boasts of a vast 7,107 islands and countless majestic beaches. It
takes more time repairing than taking care of each one. While we marvel at the
site of a glorious sunset by the beach, the question remains – how can we make these
be available for the generations to come?
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