Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Part III ______

Asia Pacific Journal of Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Multidisciplinary Research Batangas, Philippines: Basis in Scaling Up its Vol. 3 No. 4, 57-68 November 2015 Part III Marine Conservation Initiatives P-ISSN 2350-7756 E-ISSN 2350-8442 Maria Luisa A. Valdez (Ph.D) ¹, Melecio Joseph B. Bo ², www.apjmr.com Aniceto A. Samonte, Jr.³ Batangas State University – ARASOF, Nasugbu, Batangas Philippines [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

Date Received: September 4, 2015; Date Revised: October 15, 2015

Abstract - The study aimed to identify the present status of the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines and to determine the possible course of action to be undertaken to scale up the marine conservation initiatives for these MPAs.The respondents of the study include 30 key informants purposively chosen from selected coastal areas of Barangay Papaya, Nasugbu, Batangas. Findings of the study revealed that the enormous number of species found within the identified MPAs is an indication of the great number of habitat opportunities afforded by this environment. In addition to the observable community of flora and fauna visible below and above the reef’s surface, there are still thousands of unnoticed, diverse communities of organisms that live in regenerating coral slabs and rocks or in the crevices of the coral reefs in the identified MPAs. This study also revealed the ongoing environmental challenges within the areas and calls for collaboration among the local government officials and stakeholders in redefining and strengthening the conservation initiatives for MPAs to meet local, national and international commitments, to preserve ecological balance and to reduce the ongoing deterioration of their marine biodiversity.

Keywords: Etayo, Hamilo Coast, Marine Conservation Initiatives, Marine Protected Areas, Pico de Loro, Santelmo

INTRODUCTION and acknowledgedon international level as a feasible Nowadays, marine ecosystems undergo unceasing means to safeguard resources at the ecosystem threat and destruction caused by the impact of natural level[2].Numerous local, national, and phenomena and human-induced activities. Thus, the internationalagenciesendorse MPAs as instruments in demand for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) as a addressing the demands for long-term conservation of channel for protecting biodiversity and marine biodiversity,and sustainable utilization of marine resources is considerable than before. resources [3]. Marine Protected Areas refer to areas of the The establishment of MPAs is substantial because intertidal or subtidal territory, including its overlying they safeguard ecosystems and habitats to sustain and waters and associated fauna, flora, cultural and avert the loss of their biodiversity; they safeguard the historical attributes, which have been reserved by law representative species and habitat to prevent their or other valuable medium to safeguarda section or its extinction; they ensure the proper balance of the entiresurrounding environment [1]. marine ecosystem; and they help in safeguarding Recently,these MPAs have been recognized as a resources vital to commercial and recreational fishers, mainstream management toolstructured to safeguard such as schooling sites, nursery areas, spawning and and possibly rehabilitate coastal ecosystems around breeding grounds[4]. Likewise, they serve as the world. The intensified urgency with which coastal sanctuaries for marine creatures thatprovidefood and resource management practitioners now regard the other ecosystem services as well as resource security necessity to conserve marine resources has steered to where there is an adequate interaction of design and an upsurge in the number of MPAs being engendered management of MPAs and fisheries; they help sustain

57 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______the ecosystem services of marine water quality in their downward spiral of decline and degradation maintenance, sediment production and flow and beach [8]. protection; they support quality sites for education on The largest marine protected areas are located in marine and coastal heritage, culture and science;they the Indian and Pacific Oceans around the territorial support quality sites for recreation and tourism; they waters of certain British Overseas Territories and support quality sites for research and development of Territories of the United States. As of 2014, more than new technology;they support benchmarks or reference 6,500 MPAs encompassed 2.09% of the world's sites for performance reporting; and they help oceans [9]. In 2015, the United Kingdom maintain and maximize options for future sustainable governmentdeclared a budgetary allocation for the development and use of marine resources and creation of the largest contiguous marine protected environments [5]. reserve in the world around the Pitcairn Islands [10]. In 1988, the International Union for Conservation With 464 reef-building coral species identified, of Nature (IUCN) advocated a resolution calling for the Philippines hosts one of the most highly the establishment of a global representative system of biodiverse regions in the world. But due to destructive MPAs. The IUCN aims"To provide for the protection, fishing techniques, overfishing and rapid coastal restoration, wise use, understanding and enjoyment of development, these are declining at a fast pace. In the the marine heritage of the world in perpetuity through country, there are around 600 MPAs established for the creation of a global, representative system of marine conservation. Some have positively impacted marine protected areas and through management in reef health, decreased coral bleaching, increased fish accordance with the principles of the World biomass and yields in adjacent fisheries. However, the Conservation Strategy of human activities that use or majority is poorly enforced and is highly affect the marine environment."The said resolution unproductive[11]. clearly correlates the issues of marine area protection The global Coral Triangle is renowned as the and sustainability andrecognizesMPAsat the focal world’s center of marine biodiversity. Often referred point of the machinery of management for sustainable to as the “Amazon Rainforest of the Seas”, it is home utilization, awareness and leisure as well as to 37% of the world’s reef fish species and 76% of the biodiversity preservation [6]. world’s coral species. The Coral Triangle The 17th and 19th International Union for encompasses the waters Indonesia, Malaysia, the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) General Assemblies Philippines, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and the fourth World Parks Congress put forth the and Timor- Leste. The Verde Island Passage, which is centralization of the establishment of protected areas. located between the provinces of Batangas and In 2002, the World Summit on Sustainable Mindoro Oriental in the Philippines is one of the Development called for the creation of marine richest areas of the global Coral Triangle[12]. protected areas in consonance with international laws Hamilo Coast in Barangay Papaya, Nasugbu, and anchored on scientific information, including Batangas is situated at the heart of the Asia-Pacific representative networks by 2012.Across the globe, region and is providentially located at the entry of the many countries have set up MPAs to reverse marine Verde Island Passage, one of the most vibrant areas of decline caused by illegal fishing methods, habitat the global Coral Triangle. The Coast’s location at the destruction, and marine pollution[7]. entry of the said passage makes it an ideal jump-off Industrial development associated with point for cruising to other renowned Philippine island technological developments has also led to impacts on destinations such as Apo Reef, Bohol, Boracay, Cebu, the marine environment, both from at-sea activities Mindoro, and Palawan[13]. and on-land activities. Ocean dumping is minimized One of the strong appeals of this leisure throughupgraded waste treatment facilities, however destination and residential haven is the extensive land-based sources of pollution have led to massive natural setting, which includes 13 majestic coves degradation of some areas, and even collapse of located along Barangay Papaya, Nasugbu, Batangas. fisheries and ecosystems. Added to thisenvironmental These include the:Pico de Loro, Santelmo, Etayo, management problems is the fact that most coastal and Balibago, Subli, Arkaya, Papaya, Neela, Durado, even some open ocean marine habitats are continuing Patungan, Bucanita, Limbones, and Baybay Coves. Each cove is blessed with mountain ranges, endless 58 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______views of the South China Sea, and teeming marine local community leaders and development planners, and terrestrial life. The recent declaration of the three this paper will serve as a baseline data in theorizing coves of Hamilo Coast namely: Pico de Loro, and implementing their developmental policies to Santelmo, and Etayo as MPAs is a significant move ensure the conservation of marine resources in the towards the attainment of sustainable development of identified coves will be integrated in its priorities, the Coast. The said declaration is the result of a programs, and projects. This will help them realize the successful partnership between SM Land, World Wide necessity of capitalizing on enhanced cost-effective Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines, local assessments of these areas, in order to better stakeholders, and surrounding communities [14]. understand the trade-off that are made when The Pico de Loro Cove, which was formerly development threatens the nursery areas and the called Cutad, was named after Mt. Pico de Loro. It is ecological services they provide. This study will also located in a lush tropical valley, bounded by rolling be valuable for the academic managers in the sense mountains and a protected cove that shelters a pristine that the paper may help them update the local beachfront [15]. Santelmo Cove, on the other hand, government units as regards the current status of the was formerly called Pinagdakutan and was aptly MPAs in order to enhance their understanding of the named Santelmo after the local residents saw St. significance of coordinating and sharing information Elmo’s fire in this areasome years back. Classified as about MPAs to create a larger network through the a marine sanctuary or a “No Take Zone (NTZ) area support of community. This paper may likewise with pristine, white sand and turquoise waters, motivate the media practitioners to introduce an Santelmo offers one of the best beachfronts in the involvement strategy which incorporates instructive entire coast [16].Moreover, the Etayo Cove, formerly messages on environmental stewardship into various called Taytayen, is one of the identified prime diving forms of media to change the attitudes, behavior, and sites within Hamilo Coast.Its new name was coined norms of the people. Moreover, this will provide the after the Sanskrit term for “of the two” that pertains to College instructors of Fisheries and allied programs acouple of smaller coves which share a common opportunities to emphasize the concepts of shoreline within Etayo. It is believed to have been a environmental concern and sustainability in their refuge of pirate vessels and a popular berthing place major courses and open their students’ minds and of ships because of its thick foliage[17]. The said cove hearts to its varied lessons which may serve as inputs is classified as a marine reserve wherein only in understanding the environment as life sources. This traditional fishing by means of hook and line is paper will also give the students of fisheries a wide- allowed. ranging and reflectiveviewpointabout their field of According to Palma, the World Wide Fund for specialization through the status of the identified Nature-Philippines (WWF-Philippines)Vice President marine protected area. In addition, this paper will for Conservation Programs, the declaration of these stimulate their appreciation of nature and inspire them three coves as MPAs was very timely. He cited that an to engage in research writing as an academic initial baseline study conducted on the site last 2007 endeavor. Likewise, this study may benefit the revealed that the area has been subjected to various researchers through the knowledge and skills learned environmental strains caused by illegal means of from the study and from the research methodology fishing, which results in the deteriorating conditions employed. This study will help answer some essential of the coral, reef fish and seagrass or macroalgae inquiries on how the ecosystems function, the real communities[18]. impact of human activities on them, and what can be With reference to the foregoing inputs, the done to effectively mitigate against the loss and researchers were deeply motivated to conduct a study degradation of these habitats in order to convince about the present status of the Marine Protected policymakers and the public that the protection of Areasin the Municipal Coasts of Nasugbu, Batangas, marine nurseries is of paramount importance. Finally, Philippines in order to conceptualize environmental this paper may be used as a frame of reference by measures to strengthen the conservation initiatives for future researchers who want to conduct more studies the area and to substantiate the previous study. about the environment and environmental Therelevance of this study is underscored in terms stewardship. of its implication to a number of beneficiaries. For the 59 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY the gathering of data. In order to appreciate and The study aimed to identify the status of the understand the identified MPAs’ abundant diversity of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, life forms, the classification and scientific names used Philippines. Specifically, the paper presented the in theAtlas of Common Fishes of Tayabas Bay, aquatic resources found along the Barangay Papaya Quezon Province, Philippines by Ramos, Mendoza, Coast in Nasugbu, Batangas in terms of: aquatic Santos, Reyes, Jr., Capuli and Bimbao [21] was used floraand fauna; the identified threats affecting the said in this study. The respondents also utilized theIndo- aquatic resources; and the possible course of action to Pacific Coral Reef Field Guide by Allen and Steene be undertaken to scale up the areas’ marine [22] published by the Tropical Reef Researchas conservation initiatives. reference when the identified fish and other aquatic resources werenot found in the cited atlas. Positive METHODS identification of some species is largely dependent on the examination of a specimen sample. The experts Research Design consulted by Allen and Steene were hesitant in The present study employed the descriptive providing scientific names of some species. These research method. This method is used to obtain uncertain identifications are indicated with a question information concerning the current status of the mark. Likewise, the classification of mangroves was phenomena to describe "what exists" with respect to based on the Mangrove Management Handbook of variables or conditions in a situation[19]. This method Melana, Atchue, Yao, Edwards, Melana and Gonzales applies prominently because the present study aimed [23]. to determine the current status of the Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines so as to scale Procedures up their conservation initiatives. An approval to conduct the study was sought from the respondents.After which, the Personal Interview Participants of the Study Technique (PIT) and the Group Interview Technique The respondents of the study include 30 key (GIT) were employed. Considering the limitations of informants purposively chosen from selected coastal the former, the GIT, as a complementary technique areas of Barangay Papaya, Nasugbu, Batangas, involves interviewing groups instead of individuals. It Philippines. These include multiple stakeholders like captures group consensus rather than individual the Barangay Captain and representatives of the opinion. More so, this is much faster to conduct than Municipal Fishery and Aquatic Resource Management personal interview. The GIT, according to Mercado Council (MFARMC), the Barangay Fishery and [24] is appropriate for gathering data needed in Aquatic Resource Management Council (BFARMC), planning action projects while the personal interview fisherfolk, divers or dive guides and selected residents is suitable in generating benchmark data that can serve who form part of the civilian fisheries patrol forcein as a basis of comparison for evaluating the impact of the area known as Bantay Dagat. the project to the beneficiaries.The steps relative to analyzing data from the questionnaires and interview Instruments schedules, as described by Taylor-Power and Renner In order to attain the objectives of this study, the [25] were followed in this study. These include: researchers used documentary materials from getting to know the data, focusing the analysis, reputable publications and electronic sources as well categorizing information, identifying patterns and as the questionnaire and the Interview Schedule (IS) connections within and between categories, and as basic tools for gathering data. Mercado (1999)[20] interpretation of the data defined the questionnaire as a self-administered research tool which consist of a series of questions RESULTS AND DISCUSSION and prompts information from the respondents while an IS is an interviewer-administered research tool that Identified Aquatic Resources Found in the Marine influences the reliability and validity of the data Protected Areas of Nasugbu, Batangas, gathered from the respondents. Filipino translations of Philippines. the data gathering instruments were done to facilitate 60 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______

The identified Marine Protected Areas of 1.1 Fire Coral, Millepora sp. ** Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines have some of the 2. Stinging Corals and Lace Corals region’s richest ecosystems characterized by dense 2.1 Lace Corals, Distichoporaviolacea mangrove forests and extensive coral reefs. This could (Stylasteridae) ** be attributed to the fact that the area is blessed with F. Sea Anemones warm tropical climate and high rainfall. Likewise, the 1. Family Stichodactylidae, etc. (Anemones) waters of these MPAs are further enriched with 1.1 Merten’s sea anemone, Stichodactyla mertensii (Stichodactylidae) ** nutrients from land which enable them to support an 2. Family Cerianthide (Anemones) extensive diversity of marine life. 2.1 Tube anemone, unidentified species ** With reference to aquatic resources most G. Corals commonly found in the areas, the respondents 1. Family Pocilloporide (Corals) enumerated them as follows: 1.1Pocillopora verrucosa ** 1.2Pocillopo raeydouxi ** Table 1. Most CommonAquatic ResourcesFound in 1.3 Stylophora pistillata ** the Identified Marine Protected Areas of Pico de Loro, 2. Family Acroporidae (Corals) Santelmo and Etayo Coves in Nasugbu, Batangas, 2.1. Montipora sp. ** Philippines 2.2Acropora digitifera** 2.3 Mixed Acropa corals, mainly A. A. Seaweeds hyacinthus** 1. Green Algae (Chlorophyceae) 2.4Acropora Formosa ** 1.1 Turtle Weed –Chorodesmis fastigiata ** 3. Family Fungiidae(Corals) 1.2 Sea Lettuce -Ulva sp. ** 3.1 Fungi aconcinna ** 1.3 Coralline alga –Halimeda capiosa ** 3.2 Lythophyllon sp. ** 2. Red Algae (Rhodophyceae) 3.3 Fungi arepanda ** 1.1 Fauchea peltata ** 3.4 Podabacia crustacea** 1.2 Halymenia sp. ** 4. Family Oculinidae (Corals) 1.3Rhodymenia sp. ** 4.2 Galaxea astreata (Oculinidae) ** 3. Brown Algae ** H. Soft Corals 1.1Sargassum sp. a common tropical seaweed ** 1. Soft Coral 1.2Dictyota sp.** 1.1 Soft Coral, Sinularia sp. ** 1.3 Turbin weed –Turbinariaornata sp. ** 2. Blue Coral B. Seagrasses 2.1 Blue Coral, Heliopora coerulea ** 1. Cymodocea serrulata ** I. Crustaceans 2. Halodule pinifoli ?** 1. Subclass Cirripedia (Barnacles) 3. Syringodium isoetifolium ** 1.1 Gooseneck barnacle, Lepas testudinata (C. C. Mangroves Bryce) ** 1., Rhizophora mucronata(Local Name:Bakauan 1.2 Tidepool barnacle, Tetraclita multicostata babae ) *** (C. Bryce) ** 2. Rhizophora apiculata(Local Name:Bakauan 1.3 Acorn barnacle, Tetraclita porosa (C. lalaki) *** Bryce) ** 3. Rhizophora sp.(Local Name: Bakauan) *** 2. Subclass Stomatopoda(Mantis Shrimps) 4. Nypa fruticans(Local Name: Nipa)*** 1.1 Mantis shrimp (Squillidae) ** Aquatic Fauna 3. Family Nephropidae (Reef Lobsters) D. Sponges 1.1 Reef lobster, Enoplometopus daumi 1. Strepsichordaia lendenfeldi (Dictyoceratida (Nephropidae) ** Spongiidae) ** 1.2 Reef lobster, Enoplometopus 2. Carteriospongia sp. (Dictyoceratida, Spongiidae) holthuisi(Nephropidae) ** ** 1.3 Reef lobster, Enoplometopus 3. Callyspongia sp. (Haploclerida, Callyspongiidae) occidentalis(Nephropidae) ** ** 4. Family Palinuridae (Spiny Lobsters) E. Hydrozoans 1.1 Blue-spot rock lobster, Panulirus femoristriga 1. Family Milleporidae (Stinging Corals) ** 61 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______

1.2 Painted rock lobster, Panulirus versicolor ** Name:Suraan, Labahita, Tidluan, Turuan) 1.3 Slipper lobster, Panulirus caledonicus ** (Author: Forsskal, 1775) * 5. Family Grapside (Shore Crabs)  Family Balistidae 1.1 Shore crab, Grapsus albolineatus (Grapside) 1. Orange-lined triggerfish, Balistapus undulates ** ** 1.2Sargassum crab, Varuna litterata (Grapsidae) 2. Blackpatch triggerfish, Rhinecanthus verrucosus ** ** 1.3 Shore crab, Percnor plannissimum 3. Flagtail triggerfish, Sufflamen chrysopterus ** (Grapsidae) **  Family Caesionidae, etc. J. Sea Shells 1. Blue and gold fusilier,Caesio caerulaurea 1. Giant clam, Tridacna gigas ** (Local Name:Dalagang - bukid, Bilog, Burgis) 2. Giant clam, Tridacna crocea ** (Author: Lacepede, 1801) * 3. Giant clam, Tridacna squamosal ** 2. Neon fusilier, Pterocaesio tile ** K. Cephalopods 3. Wideband fusilier, Pterocaesio lativittata ** 1. Family Octopodidae  Family Chaetodontidae 1.1 Bigfin reef squid, Sepioteuthis 1. Threadfin butterflyfish, Chaetodon auriga ** lessoniana (Loliginidae) ** 2. Klein’s butterflyfish, Chaetodon Kleinii ** 1.2 Common reef octopus, Octopus cyanea** 3. Longfinbannerfish, Heniochus acuminatus ** 1.3 Fijian octopus, Octopus vitiensis **  Family Carangidae L. Sea Stars 1. Shrimp cad, Alepes, djedaba (Local 1. Linckia laevigata ** Name:Salay-salay, Salayaso) 2. Gomphia rosea? ** (Author: Forsskal, 1775)* 3. Echinaster luzonicus (Echinasteridae) ** 2. Herring scad, Alepesvari(Local Name:Salay- salay, Salay-salaybatang) M. Brittle Stars (Author: Cuvier, 1833) * 1. Ophiarachnella septemspinosa 3. Blue trevally, Carangoides ferdau (Local (Ophiodermatidae) ** Name: Talakitok, Sebo, Muslo) 2. Ophiarachnella gorgonia(Ophiodermatidae) ** (Author: Forsskal, 1775) * 3. Ophiomastix janualis (Ophiocomidae) ** 4. Bigeyescad, Selar crumenophthalmus(Local N. Feather Stars Name: Matambaka) 1. Feather Stars (Author: Bloch,1793) * 1.1 Capillaster multiradiatus (Comasteridae) 5. Almaco jack, Seriola rivoliana ** ** 6. Bluefin trevally, Caranx melampygus ** 2. Feather Stars - Family Comasteridae  FamilyEphippidae 1.2 Comanthina schlegelii ** 1. Golden spadefish, Platax boersii(Local 1.3 Oxycomanthus benneti ** Name:Bayang) O. Sea Urchins (Author:Bleeker, 1853) * 1. Diadema setosum (Diadematidae) 2. Orbicular batfish, Platax orbicularis ** 2. Mespilia globulus (Temnopleuridae)  Family Haemulidae 3. Echinothrix diadema? (Diadematidae) 1. Harlequin sweetlips, Plectorhinchus P. Holothurians chaetodonoides(Local Name:Alatan, Labian) 1. Holothuria fuscogilva? ** (Author: Lacepede, 1801) * 2. Euapta godeffroyi (Synaptidae) ** 2. Striped sweetlips, Plectorhinchus 3. Unidentified species (Holothuriidae) ** diagrammus(Local Name:Alatan, Hundon) Q. Fishes (Author: Linnaeus, 1758)*  Family Acanthuridae 3. Yellowbanded sweetlips, Plectorhinchus 1. Lined surgeonfish,Acanthus lineatus(Local lineatus(Local Name:Alatan, Hundon) Name: Mangadlit) (Author: Linnaeus, 1758)* (Author: Linnaeus, 1758) * 4. Ribbonned sweetlips, Plectorhinchus 2. Epaulette surgeonfish, Acanthus polytaenia(Local Name: Alatan) nigricauda(Local Name: Labahita) (Author:Bleeker 1853)* (Authors: Duncker& Mohr, 1929)*  Family Holocentridae 3. Bluespine unicornfish,Nasounicornis(Local 1. Doubletooth soldierfish, Myripristis 62 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______

hexagona(Local Name: Tangislawin, Sigang 2. Honeycomd filefish, Cantherhines pardalis ** batuhan) 3. Orangetail filefish, Pervagor aspricaudus ** (Author:Lacepede, 1802) *  Family Mullidae 2. Whitetip soldierfish, Myripristis vittata** 1. Gold-saddle goatfish, Parupeneus 3. Seychelles squirrelfish, Sargocentron cyclostomus(Local Name: Saramulyete) seychellense ** (Author:Lacepede, 1801) * 4. Sabre squirrelfish, Sargocentron spiniferum ** 2. Indian goatfish, Parupeneus indicus, (Local  Family Labridae Name:Salmonete, Manitis, Yanggutan, 1. Redbreasted wrasse, Cheilinus fasciatus(Local Saramulyete)(Author: Shaw, 1803) * Name: Dulusan) 3. Manybar goatfish, Parupeneus (Author: Bloch, 1791) * multifasciatus(Local Name: Saramulyete) 2. Tripletail wrasse, Cheilinus trilobatus(Local (Authors: Quoy and Gaimard, 1825) * Name:Dulusan, Mameng) 4. Dash-dot goatfish, Paruneneus (Author:Lacepede, 1801)* barberinus(Local Name:Saramulyete) 3. Cheeklined wrasse, Oxycheilinus (Author: Lacepede, 1801)* digramma(Local Name: Dulusan, Isdang bato) 5. Doublebar goatfish, Parupeneus bifasciatus ** (Author:Lacepede, 1801)*  Family Muraenidae 4. Threespot wrasse, Halichoeres trimaculatus 1. Starry moray, Echidna nebulosa ** ** 2. Whitemouth moray, Gymnothorax meleagris 5. Sixbar wrasse, Thalassoma Hardwicke ** ** 6. Moon wrasse, Thalassoma lunare ** 3. Undulated moray, Gymnothorax undulates **  Family Lethrinidae  Family Nemipteridae 1. Smalltooth emperor, Lethrinus microdon 1. Yellowbelly threadfin bream, Nemipterus (Local Name: Kanuping, Lugso) bathybius(Local Name:Bisugo) (Author: Valenciennes, 1830) * (Author: Snyder, 1911)* 2. Trumpet emperor, Lethrinus miniatus(Local 2. Ornate threadfin bream, Nemipterus hexodon, Name:Kanuping, Lugso, Manutsot) (Local Name: Bisugo) (Author: Forster, 1801)* (Authors: Quoy & Gaimard, 1824)* 3. Black blotch emperor, Lethrinus 3. Redspine threadfin bream, Nemipterus semicinctus(Local Name: Kanuping, Amusin) nemurus(Local Name:Bisugo) (Author: Valenciennes, 1830) * (Author:Bleeker, 1857) * 4. Thumbprint emperor, Lethrinus harak (Local 4. Two-lined monocle bream, Scolopsis Name: Kanuping) bilineatus ** (Author: Forsskal, 1775) * 5. Whitecheck monocle bream, Scolopsis 5. Big-eye bream, Monotaxis grandoculis(Local vosmeri ** Name:Kanuping)  Family Pempheridae (Author: Forsskal, 1775) * 1. Vanicolo sweeper, Pempheris vanicolensis ** 6. Slender emperor, Lethrinus variegatus(Local  Family Pomacanthidae (Angelfishes) Name: Kanuping) 1. Pearl-scaled angelfish, Centropyge vroliki ** (Author: Valenciennes, 1830) * 2. Emperor angelfish, Pomocanthus imperator **  Family Lutjanidae 3. Regal angelfish, Pygoplites diacanthus ** 1. Dory snapper, Lutjanus fulviflamma(Local  Family Pomacentridae (Damselfishes) Name:Talingan, Pingaw) 1. Maomao, Abudefduf abdominalis ** (Author: Forsskal, 1775)* 2. Scissortail sergeant, Abudefduf sexfasciatus ** 2. Malabar blood snapper, Lutjanus 3. Bengal sergeant, Abudefduf bengalensis ** malabaricus(Local Name: Pulahan) 4. Twospot demoiselle, Chrysiptera biocellata (Authors: Bloch and Schneider, 1801) * ** 3. Red bass, Lutjanus bohar ** 5. Onespot demoiselle, Chrysiptera unimaculata 4. Paddle snapper, Lutjanus gibbus ** ** 5. Onespot snapper, Lutjanus monostigma(Local 6. Springer’s demoiselle, Chrysiptera springeri name: Maya-maya ) ** (Authors: Cuvier 1828)*  Family Pomacentridae (Anemonefishes)  Family Monacanthidae 1. Barrier Reef anemonefish, Amphiprion 1. Brush-side filefish, Amanses scopas ** 63 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______akindynos ** (Author: Ruppell, 1830) * 2. Clark’s anemonefish, Amphiprion clarkia ** 7.Hexagon grouper, Epinephelus hexagonatus ** 3. Allard’s anemonefish, Amphiprion allardi **  Family Siganidae  Family Pomacentridae (Chromis) 1. Streamlined spinefoot, Siganus 1. Twotonechromis, Chromis dimidiate ** argenteus(Local Name: Baliwis, Tilis, 2. Bicolor chronis, Chromis margaritifer ** Samaral) 3. Blue-green chromis, Chromis viridis ** (Author: Quoy & Gaimard, 1825) *  Family Priacanthidae 2. White-spotted spinefoot, Siganus 1. Glasseye, Heteropriacantathus canalicultus(Local Name:Baliwis, Tilis, cruentatus(Local Name:Siga, Dilat) Samaral) (Author:Lacepede, 1801) * (Author: Park, 1797) * 2. Moontailbullseye, Priacanthus hamrur(Local 3. Mottled spinefoot, Siganu sfuscescens, (Local Name:Siga, Dilat) Name:Tilis, Baliwis) (Author: Forsskal,1775) * (Author: Houttuyn, 1782) * 3. Red bigeye, Priacanthus macracanthus(Local 4. Blue-spotted spinefoot,Siganus Name: Siga, Dilat) corallinus,(Local Name:Talagbago, Baliwis) (Author: Cuvier,1829) * (Author: Valenciennes, 1835)* 4. Purple-spotted bigeye, Priacanthus 5. Gold lined spinefoot, Siganus guttatus, (Local tayenus(Local Name:Siga,Dilat)* Name:Samaral) (Author: Richardson, 1846) (Author: Bloch, 1827) *  Family Scaridae 6. Indian rabbitfish, Siganus luridus ** 1. Steephead parrots, Chlorurus sordidus (Local  Family Sphyraenidae Name: Bun-ak) 1. Great barracuda, Sphyraena barracuda (Local (Author:Forskal, 1775) * Name:Barracuda, Rompe) 2. Festive parrotfish, Scarus festivus(Local (Author: Edwards, 1771) * Name:Bun-ak) 2. Pickhandle barracuda, Sphyraena jello(Local (Author: Valenciennes, 1840) * Name:Torsilyos, Barakuda, Rompe) 3. Dusky parrotfish, Scarus niger(Local Name: (Author: Cuvier, 1829 ) * Isdang bato) 3. Obtuse barracuda, Sphyraena obtusata(Local (Author: Forskal, 1775) * Name:Torsilyos) 4. Bleeker’s parrotfish, Scarus bleekeri ** (Author: Cuvier, 1829 ) * 5. Yellowfin parrotfish, Scarus 4. Chevron barracuda, Sphyraena genie ** hypselopterus(Local Name:Bun-ak)  Family Synodontidae (Author: Bleeker, 1853) * 1. Gracile lizardfish, Saurida gracilis (Local  Family Serranidae Name: Kalaso) 1. Areolate grouper, Epinephelus areolatus(Local (Authors: Quoy&Gaimard,1824) * Name: Lapu-lapu, Sigapoluba) 2. Brushtooth lizardfish, Saurida (Author:Forsskal. 1775) * undosquamis(Local Name:Kalaso, 2. Malabar grouper, Epinephelus Utinbundok) (Author: Richardson, 1848) * malabaricus(Local Name:Lapu-lapu,Sigapo) 3. Wanieso lizardfish, Saurida wanieso(Local (Authors: Bloch & Schneider, 1801) * Name:Kalaso) 3. Longfin grouper, Epinephelus quoyanus(Local (Authors:Shindo & Yamada, 1972) * Name:Lapu-lapu, Sigapo)  Family Tetraodontidae (Author: Valenciennes, 1830) * 1. Star puffer, Arothron stellatus (Local Name: 4. Greasy grouper, Epinephelus tauvina(Local Butete)** Name:Sigapong putik) 2. Freckled porcupinefish, Diodon holocanthus (Author: Forsskal. 1775) * (Local Name: Bot-butan)** 5. Slender grouper, Anyperodon 3. Three-barred sharpnose puffer, Canthigaster leucogrammicus(Local Name:Lapu-lapu, coronate ,(Local Name:Butete)** Sigapo, Banahan)  Miscellaneous Fishes (Authors: Valenciennes, 1828) * 1. Striped catfish, Plotosus lineatus (Plotosidae), 6. Six blotch hind grouper, Cephalopholis juveniles (Local Name:Sumbilang, Lito, Ito- sexmaculata(Local Name: Lapu-lapu, Ito, Patuna)(Author: Thunberg, 1787) * Sigapong pula) 2. Variegated lizardfish, Synodus variegatus 64 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______

(Synodontidae)(Local Name: Kalaso, Utin the other identified coves of Barangay Papaya, Bundok) (Author: Lacepede 1803) * Nasugbu, Batangas into MPAs. The respondents 3. Keel-jawed needlefish, Tylosaurus melanotus strongly suggest that information dissemination with (Belonidae)(Local Name: Haba) regard to the said expansionthrough public hearings, (Author: Bleeker, 1850)* consultations and deliberation of a re-defined R. Turtles ordinance should be conducted among key 1. Olive ridley turtle, Lepidochelys olivacea ** stakeholders particularly the fisherfolk. 2. Green sea turtle, Chelonia mydas ** Likewise, the respondents stated that even though, Legend: * Atlas of Common Fishes of Tayabas Bay, Quezon Province, these areas now has relatively little threat from fishing Philippines by Ramos, Mendoza, Santos, Reyes, Jr., Capuli and operations coming from nearby towns, still they are Bimbao (2013); Classification includes local names and authors threatened occasionally by illegal commercial fishing of the identified fish operations and fishers from nearby provinces that ** Indo-Pacific Coral Reef Field Guide by Allen and Steene require enforcement surveillance, which is generally (2000) ***Mangrove Management Handbook by Melana, Atchue, Yao, beyond existing capability and outside the influence of Edwards, Melana and Gonzales (2000) local stakeholders. This view could be attributed to the respondents’ strong belief that the town of Nasugbu is It is significant to note that the enormous quantity highly dependent on coastal resources for livelihood of species found within these areas is a direct projects and poverty alleviation which are greatly manifestation of the great number of habitat affected by vessels of commercial operators fishing opportunities afforded by this environment. In illegally within their waters. addition to the observable community of plants like In relation to threats to reefs and mangroves, the seaweeds, seagrasses and mangroves and animals like respondents cited that both mangroves and coral reefs sponges, hydrozoans, sea anemones, corals, soft are at risk due to siltation. While the mangroves are corals, crustaceans, sea shells, cephalopods, sea stars, destroyed to make way for land conversion, tourist brittle stars, feather stars, sea urchins, holothurians, resorts, or cut for firewood, the coral reefs, on the fishes, turtles and many morevisiblebelow and above other hand,are destroyed by pollution, occasional the reef’s surface, there are still thousands of dynamite fishing, tourist activities and unnoticed coral unnoticed organisms. Diverse communities live in collection for souvenirs and for other purposes. This regenerating coral slabs and rocks, or in the crevices view could be attributed to the fact that mangroves of the coral reefs within the identified MPAs. often run parallel to coral reefs and have a significantcorrelation. While mangroves grow well in Identified Threats Affecting the Marine Protected brackish, nutrient-rich waters, coral reefs need Areas of Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines clear,clean and nutrient-poor waters. Mangroves filter The respondents of the study identified threats the water of silt, human waste and nutrients, providing affecting the Marine Protected Areas of Nasugbu, the clean water that corals need to thrive[27]. Batangas, Philippines. Because environmental Finally, the respondents mentioned the lack of policies and ordinances are not strictly enforced, the extensive Information, Education and Communication respondents collectively stressed that proper (IEC) program regarding the utilization, management, utilization, protection and conservation of marine monitoring and evaluation of established MPAs resources are all compromised. among local stakeholders particularly the With reference to the major challenges affecting fisherfolk.This viewpointcould be attributed to the fact the areas, the fisher folk cited their lack of adequate that the respondents value the education process that information regarding the Coral Triangle Conservancy transpiresduring the development and implementation (CTC) proposal is one of them. Although the CTC of MPAs.The IEC may focus onsharing the political was established to organize and fund coral reef process, budgetary allocation, funding options, restoration and conservation efforts in the Philippines management strategies, enforcement and monitoring, and to implement sustainable business models in and discerning lessons learned from these phases. partnerships with local communities to preserve coral They also highlighted the need for government reefs[26], the fisher folk are still apprehensive about planners and policy makers, representatives from the the said proposal which underscores the expansionof Barangay Officials, Municipal/Barangay Fisheries and 65 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______

Aquatic Resources Management Council, People’s Bantay Dagat enforcers; consistent and effective Organization, BantayDagat, resort owners, monitoring and evaluation measures of MPAs; and developers, Non-Government Units, academe, the active inter-/intra participation of the Local private sectors andother stakeholders’ active Government Unit/s (LGU/s), Department of involvement in the participatory monitoring and Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), evaluation of the MPAs since all will share in the Municipal Agricultural Office (MAO), Municipal responsibility for implementing the program and Environment and Natural Resources Office reaping the benefits. Such monitoring conforms to (MENRO), community and other stakeholders. Christie and White’s [28] concept which says that the On the other hand, thenon-regulatory techniques monitoring processshould also be complemented with include public education like seminars/workshops, careful and constructive evaluations using systematic meetings, video and slide shows, dialogues, social and natural science methods. publications on the importance of aquatic resources, desilting and dredging of the rivers, sustainable Conservation Initiatives to Scale up the Identified development; training on aquatic resources Marine Protected Areas rehabilitation and management, alternative livelihood, It is encouraging to note that the local government enterprise development, cooperatives; habitat of Nasugbu, Batangas has begun implementing means enhancement/rehabilitation; research and monitoring to conserve and integrate management of its marine likeaquaticresource assessment, fishery assessment, resources. This could be attributed to the fact that growth and yields studies, socio-economic profiling, local government units are aware of the need to monitoring of livelihood projects and their impact; preserve ecological balance and biological diversity. community organizing like cooperatives,fishers’ Indeed, political commitment and active participation association, mangroveplanters association, and of the community are key factors for the success in women’s organizations; special projects like the this endeavor.However, for a more efficient and annual community coastal cleanup, food production, effective marine conservation initiatives, the population control, and waste management; and other respondents suggested for the re-activation of interventions like sea ranching or mariculture, fishery, theFishery Management Office (FMO) and cottage industry and Government Organizations/Non- installation of its officers as provided for in the Government Organization interventions like credit existing Marine Reserve’s Ordinance. The said office assistance, medical missions,etc. This finding may redefine itsplan toscale up the existing conforms to Melana, et al.’s [29] concept which marineconservation initiatives byoutliningthe terms involves the need for the creation of a Community- and procedures for access, utilization, development, Based Resource Management Framework (CBRMF) protection and conservation of the aquatic resources Plan, which helps define the terms and procedures for within the MPAs of Barangay Papaya. Specifically, access, use, and protection of resources within the the FMO may incorporatesome regulatory and non- CBRMF area. regulatory techniques in the plan. The regulatory techniques include the consistent CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION and strict implementation of the existing ordinance The enormous number of species found within the regarding the MPAs;utilization of limitations like identified Marine Protected Areas of Nasugbu, close portions of areas from boat docking, fry Batangas, Philippines is a direct indication of the great collection, shell collection, swimming, etc.; number of habitat opportunities afforded by this enforcement of fishery laws, rules and regulations that environment. In addition to the observable community needs to be coordinated;capitalizing on an enhanced of flora and fauna visible below and above the reef’s cost-effective assessment of the areas;provisions for a surface, there are still thousands of unnoticed, diverse more realistic budgetary allocation for the operational communities of organisms that live in regenerating expenses of the Bantay Dagat enforcers in the conduct coral slabs and rocks or in the crevices of the coral of patrolling, surveillance and monitoring of the areas reefs in the identified MPAs.This study also revealed and the municipal waters specifically for the the ongoing environmental challenges within the areas maintenance of their patrol boats or vessels; and calls for collaboration among the local appropriate and just salary for “coral gardeners” and government officials and stakeholders in redefining 66 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015 Valdez et al., Status of Marine Protected Areas in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines… ______and scaling up the conservation initiatives for the Anilao, Batangas (2015); url: https://goo.gl/9hE8UI, MPAs to meet local, national and international date retrieved: 08/30/2015. commitments,to preserve ecological balance andto [5] Threats to the Oceans and the Need for Marine reduce the ongoing deterioration of their marine Protected Areas (2015). url: http://goo.gl/MdI9h6; biodiversity. From the foregoing findings and date retrieved: 08/30/2015 [6] Threats to the Oceans and the Need for Marine conclusions, the study offers the following Protected Areas; url: http://goo.gl/MdI9h6; date recommendations: Re-activation of a Fishery retrieved: 08/30/2015 Management Office is recommended to redefine and [7] Wells, Sue; Sheppard, V.; van Lavieren, H.; Barnard, scale up the terms and procedures for accessing, N.; Kershaw, F.; Corrigan, C.; Teleki, K.; Stock, P.; utilizing, developing, protecting and conserving the Adler, E., (2008). "National and Regional Networks aquatic resources within the identified MPAs. of Marine Protected Areas:A Review of Progress" Information dissemination among stakeholders about (PDF). Master Evaluation for the UN Effort. World the recent priorities, programs, projects and policies as Conservation Monitoring Centre The Americas; date regards these MPAsbeconductedfor a more effective retrieved 2009-03-18. means ofpublic awareness about environmental [8] Threats to the Oceans and the Need for Marine Protected Areas; url: http://goo.gl/MdI9h6; date stewardship and sustainability.Researches about other retrieved: 08/30/2015 Marine Protected Areas be conducted to substantiate [9] MPAtlas (2014) Retrieved 29 September 2014. the present study. [10] National Geographic Magazine, January 2011 [11] Summary Report for MPAs in the Philippines; url ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS http://www.reefbase.org/key_topics/pdf/Philippines The researchers wish to express their personal %20mpa.pdf; date retrieved: 08/30/2015. thanks and appreciation to those who helped make this [12] Hamilo Coast.Com Website, (2015) Entry of Verde humble work a reality. First and foremost, they wish Island Passage; url: http://hamilocoast.com/location; to thank God, for inspiring them during the writing date retrieved: 08/30/2015. process. To Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, the Batangas State [13] Hamilo Coast.Com Website, (2015) Entry of Verde Island Passage; url: http://hamilocoast.com/location; University President and the other University officials date retrieved: 08/30/2015. most especially to Dr. Erma B. Quinay, the Vice [14] Hamilo Coast coves declared protected areas / President for Research, Development and Extension Agriculture (2009). URL: http://goo.gl/QWIZgX; and Prof. Enrico M. Dalangin, the BatStateU date retrieved: 08/30/2015 ARASOF Nasugbu Executive Director, for the [15] www.philrealty-showroom.com Website (2015) motivation that helps hasten the completion of this Hamilo Coast Pico de Loro Cove; url: study. To the pool of writers whose works were http://goo.gl/b1Nfzb; date retrieved: 08/30/2015. included in this study for posterity, for their [16] Hamilo Coast. The 13 Coves (2015), url; emboldened wisdom in every page of this research. To http://smcorporation.weebly.com/hamilo-caost- all of you, the researchers owe their deep gratitude. nasugbu-batangas--sm-development- corporation.html; date retrieved: 08/30/2015.

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68 P-ISSN 2350-7756 | E-ISSN 2350-8442 | www.apjmr.com Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3, No. 4, November 2015