𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐞𝐟 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐧, 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧

On May 9, 2024 a report was received by PCSDS on the agrounding of a vessel near the coast of Bgy. Lajala, Coron, Palawan. A team was immediately created composed of the following the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Barangay Government of Lajala.

During onsite assessment the agrounding was caused by a Fastcraft named Island Biri. The team utilized the transect method, the assessed total damage coral reef consist of 255 square meters area. Notably, this affected region lies within the Marine Protected Area and falls under the CoreZone of the Coastal Environmental Critical Area Network (ECAN) Map of Coron, Palawan.

According to reports, the vessel’s grounding caused substantial harm to the delicate coral ecosystem in the area, prompting concerns from environmental authorities and local communities alike. In response to the damages incurred, the PCSDS has imposed a fine totaling PHP 6,120,000, in accordance with Resolution No. 23-890.

The incident underscores the importance of maritime safety and environmental protection measures in safeguarding vulnerable ecosystems like coral reefs. Efforts to mitigate the impact and restore the affected area are expected to be initiated promptly, with collaboration between relevant agencies and community stakeholders.