Hello Again!
Where have the past two weeks gone!! Apparently time really does fly when you’re having fun!
Since getting back to Quezon City from Guiuan, I have split my time between working out of the NFRDI office, meeting with local NGOs and researching the beaches of Boracay. For the record I would like to emphasize that beach research is much more difficult than it sounds!!
In QC I had the opportunity to connect with a number of fantastic NGOs and consultants who focus on small scale fisheries. The first NGO I met with was Tambuyog Development Centre, a national NGO that advocates for the promotion of sustainable livelihoods for small scale fisherfolk. Tambuyog is also one of the NGO representatives on the National Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (NFARMCs). Tambuyog is also a lead agency in the regional Southeast Fish (SEAFish) for Justice Network. I plan to spend more time with Tambuyog next week so look for more details then.
I also met with the inspiring people behind a venture called Blue Water Consultancy. Blue Water focuses on creating sustainable livelihoods by supporting communities in establishing marine sanctuaries and protected areas to create sustainable livelihoods through tourism.
Last week saw me spend a few days enjoying the beautiful beaches of Boracay before visiting the renowned marine protected area (and scuba diving destination) in Anilao, Mabini, Batangas. My experience there was too remarkable to discuss without pictures so unfortunately that update will have to come in a few days.
Until then I leave you with some words of wisdom courtesy of the University of the Philippines College of Law:
