SLSU-Bontoc and LGU San Francisco Join Forces to Protect Marine Life
Beneath the waters of San Francisco, Southern Leyte, lies a rich marine ecosystem that supports biodiversity, livelihoods, and coastal communities. Protecting these valuable resources begins with understanding what is happening below the surface—and turning scientific evidence into meaningful action.
From July 6 to 10, 2026, Southern Leyte State University–Bontoc Campus (SLSU-Bontoc), in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of San Francisco, Southern Leyte, successfully conducts a biophysical assessment to support the proposed establishment of new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and the expansion of existing protected areas within the municipality.
The team takes a closer look beneath the waves, assessing vital components of the marine ecosystem, including coral reefs, seagrass and seaweed beds, reef fish populations, and water quality. More than simply collecting data, the activity seeks to better understand the health of the municipality's coastal waters and identify areas that need greater protection and conservation.
The gathered information serves as an important scientific foundation for identifying priority conservation areas and developing evidence-based management strategies. Through science-driven decisions, the initiative aims to promote the responsible use and long-term protection of San Francisco's coastal and marine resources—ensuring that these ecosystems continue to thrive for future generations.
This collaborative effort strongly advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water, through the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources; SDG 13: Climate Action, by strengthening the resilience of coastal ecosystems; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, through improved coastal resource management; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by bringing together the academe, local government, communities, and other stakeholders for a shared environmental mission.
Invaluable support and collaboration from LGU San Francisco, particularly its provision of financial and logistical support and its strong commitment to sustainable coastal resource management, enable the success of this assessment.
SLSU-Bontoc also recognizes the active participation of local stakeholders, community members, and partner institutions whose collective efforts bring the activity to life.
At the heart of this initiative is a simple but powerful idea: protecting our oceans is a shared responsibility. When science meets local knowledge, and when institutions and communities work together, meaningful and lasting change becomes possible.
Through science, collaboration, and shared stewardship, SLSU-Bontoc and LGU San Francisco continue to take meaningful steps toward healthier oceans, thriving marine ecosystems, and more resilient coastal communities.
Because protecting every reef, preserving every seagrass bed, and understanding every marine habitat brings us one step closer to a healthier and more sustainable future.