The sea, with its diverse marine life, and the pristine beaches of his hometown Sibutu Island in Tawi-Tawi were Richard Muallil’s playground as a child. Now, as a 35-year-old marine scientist, Muallil is hoping to transform his old playground into a marine sanctuary, preserving its biodiversity and promoting sustainable fishing. “Because there are not many programs (either private or government) … on coastal resource management there (Sibutu), the threat from overfishing and habitat destruction is high,” said Muallil in an interview with the Inquirer.

Uy, J. R. (2016, July 24). Young Tawi-Tawi scientist out to save sea of childhood. Philippine Daily Inquirer, pp. A1, A15.