BASCO, Batanes – Trained SCUBA divers of the DA-BFAR 2 in coordination with the state’s Department of Environment jointly conducted an underwater assessment of marine ecosystem along the waters of this province.

Said activity is part of the annual habitat assessment for coral cover and fish visual census to provide data on the abundance of marine life forms and community composition taken by underwater divers. Result of the assessment, will also be used for local policy formulation and crafting of appropriate intervention on the sustainable use of natural resources in the area.

“In my 10 years as a diver, I can say that diving is one of my passions because I want to show the unique and amazing underwater aquatic environment that we have in our Region, also for others to appreciate the complex marine biodiversity that our marine ecosystem possess. With these, I am encouraging everyone to take part in the protection and conservation of these valuable resources for the future generation”, said RJay Torres, 37, SCUBA Diver, and a self-confessed conservationist.

The joint activity was also conducted in support to the DENR-led celebration of the Month of the Ocean with the theme” Sustainability Feed the Global population” adopted from the UNESCO Ocean Decade Challenge 3.

To fortify the Bureau’s support, Regional Director Angel B. Encarnacion, led the hanging of awareness poster at the regional office. (with reports from RJay, Torres)