The creation of the Bitaug Marine Protected Area (MPA) is the result of an 18-year campaign involving local fisherfolk, community organisations, government agencies, and conservation groups such as the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).

The provincial government first promoted marine sanctuaries in 2007, but community momentum revived the push in recent years after surveys showed strong local support and confirmed the area’s ecological value and need for protection.

The Bitaug MPA covers nearly 150 hectares of ocean area and is now the largest MPA in the region’s Central Visayas. It includes a core zone of about 44 hectares and a surrounding buffer zone of 105 hectares.

This coastal stretch is rich in biodiversity, home to vibrant coral reefs, seagrass beds and a variety of fish species. It also serves as a haven for turtles, sharks and other marine wildlife. Fishing of sharks and rays is prohibited here except for research, which helps preserve these species that are critical to overall ecosystem health.

To ensure there is equity in the conservation approach taken in the MPA, local groups will work together to co-manage the protected area with the government.

“Our coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves are interconnected. Protecting them together is essential for a healthy environment and future,” Kristine Kate Lim, country director for WCS Philippines said in a press release.

WCS praised the achievement as a powerful example of persistence, strong local leadership and collaboration across sectors. The MPA also supports responsible ecotourism like snorkelling and diving, with the revenue from these activities to be reinvested into the community and conservation work.

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