PH Ocean Observing and Coastal Resource Management

The Philippines is a biodiversity hotspot whose population relies on marine resources threatened by local and global stressors. The capacity to consistently and reliably monitor its seas is limited.

This project aims to develop technological and socio-ecological capacities for ocean observation and modeling and enhance understanding and management of current and emerging coastal ecosystem threats in the country through fit-for-purpose and co-design approaches. It will deploy ocean observing systems and numerical models to assess changes in the coastal environment. It will also evaluate biotoxins and pollutants in coastal seas.

The project will engage stakeholders to co-design and develop fit-for-purpose ocean observing and modeling systems that can address concerns at pilot coastal areas. The chosen sites represent different uses: capture fisheries. aquaculture. and tourism in biodiversity hotspots. and the project will develop coastal management practices and tools.