PROTECT PANAON ISLAND CORAL REEFS!

It may be in near-pristine condition, but Panaon Island’s coral reefs are threatened by plastic pollution, illegal fishing, and the increasing number of crown-of-thorns starfish.

We have to act fast to save the coral reefs of Panaon Island. These healthy corals are important to local communities. It provides food and supports livelihood and tourism. Panaon also lies directly on the pathway of storms and extreme weather systems that render coastal communities at high risk to climate change impacts. The damage and losses in lives and properties from Super Typhoon Odette in 2021 are not ones that can be easily forgotten.

Enhanced law enforcement, better management, and stronger safeguards have to be in place to eliminate threats and strengthen protection to Panaon’s climate-resilient reefs.

On February 4, 2026, Congress passed the bill declaring the waters of Panaon Island, Southern Leyte as a protected seascape. Now, we call on President Marcos Jr. to sign it into law immediately.

petition text

{contact_data~title} {contact_data~firstName} {contact_data~lastName},

We appeal to President Bongbong Marcos to sign the Panaon Island Protected Seascape Bill promptly.

This bill declaring more than 60,000 hectares of waters surrounding Panaon Island, Southern Leyte, as a protected area is a crucial step to enhance the resilience of its reefs that has more than 40% coral cover– a breakthrough amidst reports of continued decline of coral reefs in the Philippines.

Coral reef protection is at the heart of our habitat conservation and protection efforts. To restore our country’s vibrant and abundant marine resources, we need healthy coral reefs to support marine life and allow it to thrive. The immense benefits of fish abundance, marine biodiversity, and a resilient ecosystem to people of present and future generations are immeasurable.

We must act fast to save Panaon Island’s remaining good and excellent coral reefs. It lies directly on the pathway of storms and extreme weather systems that render coastal communities at high risk to climate change. The damage and losses to lives and properties from Super Typhoon Odette are not easily forgotten.

Although Panaon Island’s coral reefs may be in near pristine condition, plastic pollution, illegal fishing activities, and the increasing number of crown-of-thorns starfish continue to threaten them. All these make enhanced law enforcement and stronger safeguards more crucial than ever.

Once declared a protected seascape under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act, Panaon Island will enjoy the added layer of protection to enhance conservation efforts. This declaration will enable mechanisms to strengthen governance and promote citizen participation in conservation programs. More importantly, local governments have more opportunities to access the needed resources and support from the national government, including livelihood opportunities.

The time is now. Panahon na ng Panaon!

Kind regards,
{user_data~First Name} {user_data~Last Name}

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