New Patrol Boats Bolster Marine Protection Efforts in the Philippines

As part of WildAid’s comprehensive effort to strengthen fisheries law enforcement in Silago Cabalian Bay, Philippines, we delivered three new patrol boats to the Pacific Area Alliance of Local Governments for Marine Resource Development. In partnership with the Canadian government and nonprofit organization Rare, WildAid was able to acquire, retrofit, and deliver the boats, along with vital training. These investments mark just the beginning of ensuring conservation plans take root and flourish. 

The Philippines is located in the Coral Triangle which is considered the most diverse and biologically complex marine ecosystem on the planet. Despite its ecological importance, the area continues to face unsustainable fishing practices that harm both marine species and local livelihoods. The new patrol boats are critical tools that will help local authorities better protect their waters, safeguarding a vast array of marine life that calls this region home.

The patrol boats are part of the five-year project “Advancing Rights-Based Co-Management of Coastal Fisheries in FMA 8” which aims to address resource challenges through the collaboration of national and local governments and other stakeholders. The project empowers fishing communities, helps adopt climate-resilient fisheries technologies, elevates law enforcement capability, and supports sustainable management of fishery resources. The boats will be utilized by the Philippine National Police Maritime Group and local government units of Hinundayan and Anahawan, strategically complementing ongoing conservation and fisheries protection activities. 

Andrew Green, Political and Public Affairs Counsellor of the Canadian Embassy, highlighted the potential of this collaborative effort, stating, “There is hope that Southern Leyte will serve as an example of how broader bodies, such as local governments, can collaborate to find cooperative solutions to resource issues and utilize these tools effectively.” 

WildAid Marine’s Program Manager, Jay Udelhoven, emphasized the importance of continuity in these efforts: “We hope to continue beyond five years, perhaps extending it to 10 years if additional funding becomes available.” This long-term vision underscores WildAid’s commitment to enhancing marine protection through ongoing partnership, support, and capacity-building. 

Since 2023, WildAid has worked with Rare in Southern Leyte and Southern Palawan to provide direct support to both local and national law enforcement, from developing patrol strategies and enhancing coordination to offering policy guidance and training. The three new patrol boats are a significant addition, helping to ensure that law enforcement can fulfill the protection mission.  

Enforcement is a cornerstone of sustainable resource management, and civil societies will always require effective mechanisms to uphold their rules. These new patrol boats are not only vital for the immediate enhancement of fisheries law enforcement but are intended to provide at least 20 years of service. As we look beyond this timeframe, the introduction of updated enforcement technologies, equipment, and vessels will be critical to maintaining the protection and sustainable management of the Philippines’ coastal and marine waters.

This ongoing commitment ensures that both local communities and the natural ecosystems they depend on will continue to thrive well into the future.