STEP FOR CONSERVATION: Project “Lusay” in Capiz

Pilar, Capiz- As we delve into the breathtaking natural wonders that showcase the ecological importance of our landscapes and seascape, we uncover a pressing call to action: the urgent need for conservation. With this increased threat, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) remains steadfast in its mission to protect, conserve and manage our environment and natural resources—not just for today, but for generations to come.

In our marine ecosystem, we encounter different threats that may harm not just our marine species but also us, humans. We have different ways to protect it – clean up is one, but on the natural side they have their own defenders.

Have you ever wondered about these natural defenders? Our mighty mangroves or colorful coral reefs? Yes, they are also beneficial but let’s go deeper, let’s go with our seagrass ecosystems.

DISCOVERY OF SEAGRASS BEDS

Pilar, Capiz, located in the northeastern part of Panay Island, is renowned for its rich coastal and marine biodiversity has made a new contribution, not just for the environment but as well as for the community’s economy. In 2021, the Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Program (CMEMP) of the Provincial ENR Office (PENRO) Capiz identified 159 hectares of seagrass, seaweed, and algae beds in Pilar, distributed as follows:

• Barangay Balogo: 81.30 hectares
• Barangay Casanayan: 35.65 hectares
• Barangay San Ramon: 30.85 hectares
• Barangay San Antonio: 11.20 hectares

During a recent discovery dive with the local government units (LGUs), it was found that the municipality’s extensive seagrass beds play a vital role in the local economy by supporting fisheries and protecting coastlines.

However, recent assessments indicate a decline in these habitats due to sedimentation, pollution, and unregulated coastal activities, leading to reduced fish yields and increased vulnerability to climate impacts.

PROJECT “LUSAY”

Seagrass, locally known as “lusay,” is essential to marine ecosystems, providing critical habitats for various marine species, enhancing water quality, and preventing coastal erosion. But most especially seagrass is one of the sources of oxygen-rich waters and also good in storing carbon, just like forest on land.

About one square meter of seagrass can generate 10 liters of oxygen through photosynthesis that is why it is called the “lungs of the sea.” Unlike artificial carbon capture technologies, seagrass conservation and management are cost-effective, scalable, and self-sustaining. Once established, these meadows continue to capture carbon indefinitely with minimal maintenance.

PENRO Capiz has proposed Project “LUSAY,” an initiative focused on seagrass conservation and management. With potential funding from the DENR, the project emphasizes long-term conservation, scientific monitoring, and stakeholder collaboration to ensure measurable and lasting environmental and social benefits.

The project will be evaluated to identify and assess its potential as protected area based on the ecological significance and determine its appropriate category through the Protected Area Suitability Assessment (PASA). This is a crucial step in establishing or managing protected areas within DENR Region 6 jurisdiction, to ensure that areas with high biodiversity value are adequately protected.

GREEN PARTNERSHIP

For many years, the DENR in Region 6 has been committed to establish strong connections with other agencies and communities for broader volunteer engagement in environmental protection. The discovery of such a vast seagrass area is not only a sign of biodiversity but also an opportunity to strengthen local conservation initiatives.

In response to this new information, the Provincial ENR Office of Capiz, headed by Dr. Ernest C. Federiso, intends to partner with the Provincial Government of Capiz ENRO, local government units (LGUs) of Pilar, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), coastal communities, fisherfolk organizations, and academic institutions, to work together to leverage resources, share knowledge, and promote collective responsibility for the conservation of the seagrass beds.

“Have you ever wondered about the power of community engagement and the will of leaders—both national and local—toward environmental advocacy? It is more than an oath of protection; it is a step for conservation,” said DENR 6 Regional Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla.

“Pilar’s initiative serves as a model for marine conservation, showcasing how local efforts can lead to significant environmental benefits. By prioritizing the health of these seagrass beds, the community can help secure a sustainable future for both marine life and local livelihoods,” he concluded.

Dr. Federiso also encourages the public to engage in coastal or underwater dive clean-ups, stating that “the carbon sequestration rate of seagrass is higher than that of mangroves and trees. If a mangrove is cut down or grows old and dies, the carbon it sequesters returns to the atmosphere. In contrast, seagrass meadows bury carbon in the ocean floor.”