TACLOBAN CITY – Community leaders, officials, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens are rallying behind a crucial legislative effort to designate Panaon Island in Southern Leyte as a protected area under Republic Act 11038 or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act.

National Economic Development Authority-8 Assistant Regional Director Jam Colas-Villaber said she believes that the declaration of Panaon Island as a protected seascape is crucial to safeguard the preservation and sustainable management of the island’s unique marine biodiversity for future generations. 

Residents said protecting Panaon Island means protecting their livelihood. “Malaking tulong sa amin ang nakukuhang income sa whale shark watching,” Raul Cordova, chairman of Barangay Son-ok in Pintuyan town, said. 

Panaon Island boasts of sustainable whale shark watching,  one managed by locals in a way that does not disrupt their natural feeding cycles and seasons. 

Department of Tourism-8 Assistant Regional Director Boris Pascubillo expressed optimism that the legislation will contribute to improving their tourism efforts. 

“Not only is it a part of Sogod Bay, but it’s also a true gem among the Philippines’ dive spots and deserves much attention and protection.”

Oceana, a leading marine conservation organization, has facilitated consultations and capacity-building sessions with local communities across Panaon Island. 

"The immediate approval of this bill is crucial for the sustainable management and long-term protection of Panaon Island," Gloria Estenzo Ramos, vice president of Oceana, said. 

In November 2023, the House of Representatives passed the bill protecting Panaon Island on its third reading. 

Backed by Sen. Cynthia Villar and national conservation leaders, the bill’s passage through the Senate would mark a pivotal step in realizing the Philippines' commitment to the global “30x30” conservation goal: Protecting 30 percent of the nation’s terrestrial and marine areas by 2030. 

The Senate resumes its interpellation of the bill alongside 10 other legislative measures for proposed protected area designations on Dec. 2.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has prioritized Panaon Island as a critical area for conservation. 

The island’s coral reefs are part of the global "50 Reefs" initiative, underscoring their resilience and potential for contributing to climate change mitigation.

Oceana’s 2020 expedition to Panaon’s reefs found coral cover exceeding 60 percent, far above the national average of 20 percent.