DMMMSU-NLUC-FRTI, NGO’s to restore coral reefs in Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union
Posted on by Maricon C. Viduya

Plans to restore the coral reefs in Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union are already underway and there is no stopping DMMMSU-NLUC-Fisheries Research and Training Institute, Rotary Club of San Fernando (LU), Inner Wheel Club of San Fernando (LU), and Ocean Deep Diving Training Center from realizing these plans.  

This project titled “Installation of artificial reef to harness potential of Balaoan, La Union for underwater tourism and improved productivity of its coral reef resources” stemmed from the recommendation of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Region 1 after their assessment and mapping of coral reefs in Balaoan. Mapping and assessment results show that the Municipality of Balaoan has 58.647 hectares of coral reef area with a live coral cover percentage of 42.67% which is rated as Category 3. Although Catergory 3 means that the coral reefs are in good condition, the groups earlier mentioned are taking a proactive initiative to ensure stable condition of corals in order to increase the growth of flora and fauna in the area.  

On February 23, 2021, Ocean Deep Divers namely Tim Aukshun and Gibby Bridges along with snorkelers Wayne Sanders and Lyn Mae Quitola surveyed the coastal area of Brgy. Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union particularly in front of FRTI for a location to set up an artificial reef (AR) and for the coral restoration project. After a most demanding hike into the deeper water, they were able to identify a spot where the AR’s will be installed.

Meanwhile, Dr. Andie John Tadeo, paid a courtesy call on Wednesday, August 12, 2021 to Hon. Aleli U. Concepcion, Mayor of Balaoan, La Union, presented the project and sought the approval and support of the Mayor. The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist also expressed support of the project.

Courtesy call with Mayor Aleli U. Concepcion of Balaoan, La Union
Dr. Andie John Tadeo, Director of Fisheries Research and Training Institute, discusses the details of the project with the Rotary Club of San Fernando (LU), the Inner Wheel Club of San Fernando (LU), and the Ocean Deep Diving Training Center.
Donation of automatic thermal scanner and alcohol dispenser

President Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. leads the team that will be implementing the project in October or November this year. Other team members include Dr. Junifer Rey E. Tabafunda, Dr. Andie John D. Tadeo, Prof. Desiree  A. Villar, Mr. Robert Brian Lim (President, RCSF-LU, Inc.), Ms. Juli W. Lim (President, IWCSF-LU), and Mr. Tim Ausksun (Manager, ODDTC).

The team further dreams of developing a pool of human resources for coral restoration and eco-tourism that could jump-start coral restoration service industry, and of promoting science-based coral reef management for the enhancement of coral diversity through the project. (Ayu)