The Philippines, located amid the Coral Triangle — a marine region housing over 2,000 reef fish species, has long been renowned for its thriving fisheries sector.

Despite being the center of marine biodiversity in the world, the country remains plagued by plastic pollution and cases of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing — presenting a paradox within the country's marine environment.

In response to these coastal threats, young oceanographic researcher Carmela Ellaga demonstrates a passionate commitment to sustainable fisheries that transcend fisherfolk communities, inspiring her fellow youth to uphold ecological responsibility one initiative at a time.

Coastal advocacy

Rising from a small coastal community in South Negros, Ellaga started her environmental advocacy at the ripe age of 15. She witnessed firsthand how climate change and plastic pollution harm coastal areas dependent on fishing as their primary livelihood source.

“I started my advocacy as a camper at Danjugan Island Environmental Education Program, where I was a scholar, eco-guide, and later on became a camp facilitator who learns and teaches about conservation and sustainability,” Ellaga said.

Armed with a degree in fisheries, she champions marine conservation and fisheries resource management, working with coastal communities to help foster a healthy relationship between livelihoods and the ocean.

Eco-initiatives for the planet

Ellaga further contributed to the fisheries sector through research work and bureau involvement as an oceanographic researcher aboard the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources' multi-mission and research vessel, MV DA-BFAR.

“As part of my passion for sustainable fisheries and environmental conservation, I want to dive more into their scientific and research aspect while continuing to be a voice to protect the interests of small-scale, artisanal, municipal, and sustenance fishers who are mostly marginalized, poor, and most affected by climate change,” she expounded.

Ellaga, a community facilitator for USAID’s Municipal Waste Recycling Program, also helped local convenience stores cut single-use plastic by allowing customers to fill reusable containers from large dispensers, which reduced communities' single-use waste by 45,000 pieces in seven months.

The oceanographic researcher also served as the project officer of the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, where she facilitated three coastal LGUs in South Negros to establish mangrove eco-parks and strengthen marine protected areas for conservation.

Youth power for marine sustainability

As future heirs of the planet, the youth should take charge of tomorrow by tending to today's environment, starting by replacing single-use plastic with reusable ones and fostering environmental discourses among peers.

“I believe that my fellow youth can do so much more in the fight for environmental conservation and protection,” Ellaga said, “and we need more youth from diverse backgrounds doing different initiatives addressing various environmental issues in their communities.”

In essence, Ellaga's journey, from young coastal advocate to oceanographic researcher, stands as a testament to the impactful youth-driven environmental conservation initiatives that help the planet achieve long-fought sustainability not just on land but also in our finite waters.

It's a stark reminder that we only have one planet to care for. If not yesterday, immediately is the best time for the youth to champion marine conservation and be part of eco-initiatives fueled by collective action and a shared purpose.