A special luncheon in honor of ocean conservation was held to celebrate Dr. Sylvia Earle, the legendary oceanographer, known as “Her Deepness,” for her decades of dedication to protecting the world’s oceans.
Dr. Earle, who founded Mission Blue, is known worldwide for her groundbreaking work in ocean science and advocacy. In 2023, Mission Blue named the Verde Island Passage (VIP) a Hope Spot to recognize its rich biodiversity and its important role in ocean health.
Dr. Earle returned to the Philippines with Ocean Geographic to explore the VIP again. One highlight was a luncheon at Aiyanar Beach and Dive Resort, where local communities, organizations, government units, conservation groups, and individuals gathered to support ocean protection.
The event encouraged conversations about the VIP’s importance as a biodiversity hotspot and as a system that supports climate regulation, local livelihoods, and the well-being of communities around the world.
“Just think how fortunate you are to be surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the deepest, widest, oldest, most robust in terms of the diversity of life. You have the center of the center of global shorefish biodiversity, what we call the Hope Spot, the VIP.” She reflected on the global significance of the region.
“Nobody can do it all. But you can do something. Multiply it by 8 billion if we really start moving in the same general direction to protect the natural living systems that make our existence possible,” she added.
Joal Escalon, representing the ABS-CBN Foundation, shared the organization’s efforts to support VIP conservation. He talked about their citizen science programs, Eco Camps, and sustainable livelihood projects that help coastal communities protect marine resources.
“Having Dr. Sylvia Earle with us underscores the importance of both knowledge and heart, a voice that brings people together to protect what is irreplaceable. The VIP serves countless communities, and its future depends on all of us acting together today to sustain and protect it,” Escalon said.
The luncheon also featured keynotes from Mr. Michael Aw, who emphasized the urgent need to safeguard marine ecosystems and the critical role of collaboration, science, and community-driven initiatives in preserving Hope Spots like the VIP. While Gio Endaya, representative of Marine Education and Preservation (MEP), discussed the importance of community awareness, involvement, and action in protecting coastal communities and their homes.
The event also recognized its beneficiaries, The Pink Argonauts and S.H.O.R.E. (Sustainable Hospitality Operations and Resort Enterprise), which are organizations focused on community-led marine conservation and sustainable practices.
Dr. Sylvia Earle’s visit reminded everyone that protecting the ocean is a shared responsibility. With communities, organizations, and advocates working together, the effort to preserve the VIP goes on, inspired by hope, guided by science, and united by a common goal.