Panay, Capiz – A recent underwater survey conducted in early June has found that the coral reefs around Napti Island in Panay town and Tucad Reef in Pilar town are in good condition.
The four-day survey was part of Capiz’s Environment Month celebration. Its goal was to collect data on the health, biodiversity, and status of the coral reefs in these areas.
Survey Reveals Healthy Coral Reefs Around Capiz
The survey revealed that coral cover in Tucad Reef is at 63 percent. Despite some areas having a lot of coral rubble, parts of the reef remain in excellent condition. This information was shared by Avegil Villar, the Capiz program manager for Sentro Para sa Ikauunlad ng Katutubong Agham at Teknolohiya Inc. (SIKAT).
SIKAT is a non-profit organization focused on improving coastal community resilience. They work on community-based coastal resource management and disaster risk reduction programs.
The underwater survey was funded by SIKAT and the Capiz Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office. The survey was conducted in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, local governments, barangay councils, and community organizations.
“This data will help establish a community-managed marine protected area. Our aim is to increase healthy coral reef cover and fish biomass,” said Villar. The findings and recommendations will be presented to local government units and the community. This will support conservation strategies to protect and restore the coral reefs around Napti Island and Tucad Reef.
The survey team included master diver Excalibur Seterra from the Iloilo Provincial Agriculturist Office. They used visual assessments and scientific techniques to gather accurate information. Water samples were also collected to test temperature, salinity, pH levels, and dissolved oxygen.
A similar survey was conducted in November 2023 to continue monitoring the reefs in Capiz province.
News and images source: PIA- Capiz/ Alex Lumaque/ SIKAT