The month of May here in the Philippines is designated as the “Month of the Ocean” and is intended to “highlight the conservation, protection and sustainable management of Philippine coastal and ocean resources,” according to the government’s Official Gazette. Ocean conservation is certainly a worthwhile advocacy, especially in this country. We are an archipelagic nation; the ocean is, after all, our home. Given the critical importance of healthy seas, however, we have to wonder whether a designated “month” is really the best or even a sufficient way to focus public attention and encourage changes that help instead of harm our oceans.

Care for the oceans requires more than a 'month'. (2021, May 5). The Manila Times, p. A4.