Experts: More research on Rozul Reef needed

CNN Philippines

China is being blamed for coral reef destruction in areas frequented by its maritime militia in the West Philippines Sea. But some Filipino experts say more research is needed to determine the cause and extent of the damage.  Tristan Nodalo has this story.  Visit our website for more #NewsYouCanTrust: https://www.cnnphilippines.com/  Follow our social media pages:  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CNNPhilippines • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cnnphilippines/ • Twitter: https://twitter.com/cnnphilippines

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00:00 A reef rich in marine biodiversity. This is how marine scientists from the UP Marine Science Institute

00:07 describe the state of Vrozol or Iroquois Reef in the West Philippine Sea.

00:11 The UP MSI conducted their first scientific expedition in the southern portion of the reef in 2021.

00:18 So there was a considerable reef extent with a diverse marine life such as reef fishes, hard coral, soft coral, seaweeds.

00:28 Scientists say they need to go back to Vrozol or do another study to compare their previous research to the current state of the reef.

00:35 It's sad if we go back to the same location and they are all dead.

00:43 There could be a number of reasons for the destruction of the reef.

00:47 I'm not sure if the area is blasted.

00:52 We have to check deliberate if for example, a collection of corals is dead.

01:00 The natural phenomenon called coral beaching.

01:03 The Philippines has 26,000 square kilometers of coral reef. 30% of this can be found in the West Philippine Sea.

01:10 Current data show an estimated damage on coral reefs at 140,000 US dollars or more than 7 million pesos per square kilometer.

01:20 Restoration would take years.

01:22 Reef rehabilitation is dependent on the damage.

01:26 So the most important consideration is if we still have a source of corals.

01:33 For advocacy group Oceana, overfishing is another challenge in the West Philippine Sea.

01:38 3 to 5% of the country's fish production comes from the area.

01:42 Some of the main fish caught in the West Philippine Sea are galangal, tamban, and sardines.

01:52 The group and UB MSI are now urging the government to declare the West Philippine Sea as a marine protected area.

01:58 It's faster if there's a presidential proclamation establishing it as a marine protected area.

02:03 But it's also more sustainable if there's legislation.

02:07 Of course, there should be resources and budget.

02:11 Should it materialize, the Philippines can soon elevate this to the international community

02:16 and urge other countries to work together in protecting the maritime area.

02:20 This is CNN Philippines.

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