For an archipelago surrounded by waters teeming with marine life and one of the most biodiverse ecosystyems in the world, sustained efforts, initiatives and programs must be in set in motion to protect and preserve them, Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato dela Pena stressed. “Historically, the Philippines has relied on the seas, the oceans, the lakes, our bodies of water for food, transportation, recreational activities. Goods and services that can be provided by seas, oceans, and inland waters are of course food and other natural products,” dela Pena said during the 39th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM): Attaining Sustainable Development Goals Philippine Fisheries 20/20 at the Manila Hotel the other day. Dela Pena, however, lamented that the country’s vast aquatic and marine resources and environment have been almost taken for granted.

Sadongdong, M. A. (2017, July 14). 'Science, technology ket to protection prservation of PH marine resources'. Manila Bulletin, p. 9.