Manila, Philippines (17th March 2025) – Banwa Private Island, through its environmental arm, the Aquos Foundation, in celebration of World Wildlife Day 2025, partnered with Save Philippine Seas (SPS), led by Ms. Anna Oposa, and Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines (MWWP), headed by Dr. AA Yaptinchay, to co-organize the Pating (Shark) Patrol Training in Roxas, Palawan. The initiative aimed to deepen community awareness of shark and ray conservation, focusing on species identification, legal protection, and the importance of Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRAs), particularly surrounding Banwa Private Island, a key reproductive habitat for blacktip reef sharks.
The training gathered key stakeholders, including representatives from the Barangay Council of Tumarbong, Tumarbong Marine Protected Area (TMPA) Management Board, fisherfolk associations, the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO), the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), and Banwa Private Island & Aquos Foundation teams. Their participation underscored the collective responsibility in safeguarding marine biodiversity in Palawan’s waters.
Nestled in the Sulu Sea, northeast of Palawan—considered the last frontier of the Philippines—Banwa Private Island is a haven for marine biodiversity, making conservation efforts a fundamental part of its sustainability mission.
Throughout the training, experts discussed shark and ray species commonly found in the Philippines, their ecological roles, and the threats they face. Participants also learned about existing conservation laws that protect these species and the importance of ISRAs in ensuring their long-term survival. Additionally, community involvement in conservation efforts was emphasized, particularly in improving data collection on shark sightings, bycatch, and landings to support scientific research and policy recommendations.
The initiative highlighted the importance of local engagement in marine conservation, emphasizing that empowering communities with knowledge and practical conservation tools is key to protecting marine biodiversity. Through programs like Pating (Shark) Patrol Training, Banwa Private Island is fostering a culture of environmental stewardship that extends beyond the island, ensuring that future generations inherit a thriving marine ecosystem.
Banwa Private Island’s Aquos Foundation plays a vital role in marine conservation through initiatives such as reef restoration, marine turtle conservation, and sustainable fisheries management. By integrating scientific research with community action, the foundation works to protect critical marine habitats and support local conservation programs.
One of the key commitments from the training was the active participation of local stakeholders in conservation efforts. Attendees pledged to report shark sightings through the Shark Spotted PH Facebook group, enhance local data collection on marine species, and advocate for sustainable fishing practices to reduce threats to sharks and rays.
Beyond advocacy and training, Banwa Private Island offers guests with immersive conservation experiences that highlight its commitment to sustainability. Guests can explore the island’s Tabon Bird Sanctuary, home to the nesting Philippine Megapode (Tabon Bird) and the Mantanani Scops Owl, a near threatened species. They can also snorkel in the island’s vibrant house reef, witnessing thriving corals, giant clams, and diverse marine life, or participate in Banwa Private Island’s Marine Turtle Conservation Program, where they may observe nesting turtles, natural hatchling releases, and conservation efforts in action.
The success of the Pating (Shark) Patrol Training reflects the power of collaboration in marine conservation. By strengthening community engagement and scientific research, this initiative reinforces the vital role of local stakeholders in protecting Palawan’s rich marine biodiversity.
To experience Banwa Private Island’s immersive conservation programs, contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882836, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com or visit website at www.banwaprivateisland.com.
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