The West Philippine Sea serves as a home to rich marine ecosystems including various fish species, coral reefs, and other marine life. According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, this area accounts for approximately 11% of the country’s marine-captured fisheries and sustains the livelihoods of around 300,000 fisherfolk. This underscores its critical importance not only for the country’s economic and food security but also for the livelihoods of local communities dependent on this critical waterway.  

It has, however, been subjected to extensive environmental degradation. Destructive practices such as illegal fishing, dredging, and artificial island-building have caused significant harm to the marine environment. The presence of foreign vessels, alongside the recent oil spill from the sunken motor tanker MT Terra Nova, have the potential to become ecological disasters if not properly addressed. 

As such, there is a pressing need for stronger marine conservation efforts for a maritime nation like the Philippines. Partnerships with like-minded countries such as Australia are crucial. Australia has been known for its management, conservation, and sustainable use of the marine environment. It has actively supported the Philippines through various initiatives, including funding coral restoration projects, research efforts, and capacity-building programs. 

In line with these efforts, the Stratbase ADR Institute, in partnership with the Australian Embassy in the Philippines, organized a roundtable discussion entitled “Coral Reefs & Currents: Prioritizing Marine Conservation in the West Philippine Sea” last August 27, 2024 (Tuesday), from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (PHT) at the DBI Open Space (2^nd Floor), Asian Institute of Management, Makati City. 

This event gathered key stakeholders from the government, diplomatic community, academe, and think tanks to develop comprehensive, sustainable, and collaborative marine conservation strategies to address the pressing environmental challenges in the West Philippine Sea.