Community debriefing tackles coral reef conservation and Apo Island Jetty Port decision

Around 50 participants gathered at Lindholm Hall, Silliman University Church on August 16, 2025, for a Community Debriefing and Informed Engagement on Coral Reef Conservation and Restoration. The event shed light on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) recent decision regarding the proposed Apo Island Jetty Port while reinforcing community efforts toward marine protection.

Organized by the Sustainable Environment Alliance for Negros Island (SEAN) and the Silliman University Institute of Environmental and Marine Sciences (SU-IEMS), in partnership with the Justice and Peace Committee of the SU Church, the debriefing provided a platform for scientists, local leaders, church members, and Apo Island residents to discuss pressing environmental concerns, particularly the next steps following the DENR’s decision on the proposed Jetty Port.

The program opened with a prayer led by University Pastor Rev. Jonathan R. Pia, followed by the introduction of participants by Dr. Hope Frances Yap, SEAN Convener of Ocean 6. Asst. Prof. Ronelaine Picardal, chairperson of the SU Church Justice and Peace Committee, welcomed participants, emphasizing collaborative stewardship of the seas.

SU President Dr. Betty Cernol-McCann delivered an inspirational message, affirming the university’s commitment to marine conservation and social equity. She emphasized SU’s legacy of environmental leadership, acknowledging the pivotal role of National Scientist Dr. Angel Alcala, who pioneered the country’s first no-take marine sanctuary in 1973 at Sumilon Island, followed by the Apo Island sanctuary in 1982.

(L-R) Aidalyn Arabe, Dr. Frances Hope Yap, Nancy Estolloso (SEAN Conveners), Ronelaine Picardal (SU Church Chairperson), Dr. Aileen P. Maypa (IEMS Director, Pew Marine Fellow), and Dr. Betty Cernol McCann (SU President) pose at the event.

Dr. McCann cited the recent success of science and community partnership when the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) revoked the Apo Jetty Port approval after years of determined resistance. “This victory is not merely about stopping a construction project,” she said. “Apo Island is a living testament to how stewardship, science, and community partnership can protect God’s creation.”

Dr. Aileen P. Maypa, SU-IEMS Director, SEAN Convener, and 2025 Pew Marine Conservation Fellow, presented updates on coral reef conservation and restoration, alongside the latest developments on the Apo Island Jetty Port case. She emphasized that science-based, community-friendly strategies are vital to balancing environmental sustainability with local livelihoods.

Participants engaged in a workshop facilitated by Ms. Rochelle Marie Remollo, Pinoy Climate Reality Leader and Global Training Mentor 2020, who guided discussions on concerns, outcomes, and ways forward. The activity allowed the 20 representatives from Apo Island to voice perspectives and propose community-centered solutions.

An Apo Island resident shares his thoughts and steps forward after the DENR’s decision in a workshop led by Rochelle Remollo.

Toward the end of the program, Dr. Maypa and Asst. Prof. Danielle Mark Fukuda extended an invitation to join the Coral Reef Conservation and Restoration Network, fostering long-term collaboration among advocates. Closing remarks were given by SEAN Convener Atty. Nancy Estolloso.

The event concluded with renewed commitment among participants to protect Apo Island’s marine ecosystems and to strengthen grassroots involvement in environmental policy-making.

(Report by Asst. Prof. Ronelaine B. Picardal)