Marcos calls on public to help preserve, protect PH maritime resources

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. —Photo by Yummie Dingding/PPA

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday called on both the public and the national government to “preserve” and “protect” the country’s maritime and archipelagic resources to its “fullest potential.”

Marcos made the pronouncement amid the observance of the Maritime and Archipelagic Awareness Month (MANA Mo).

In a video message, Marcos noted the country’s vast maritime and archipelagic resources that “can be utilized for the benefit” of the nation.

READ: Experts say global effort needed to protect ecosystem in West PH Sea

“As stewards of this incredible gift, it is incumbent upon us to preserve and develop these resources to their fullest potential,” Marcos said.

“This year’s celebration of MANA Mo is a clarion call to raise greater consciousness on maritime and archipelagic concerns as well as to engage our people in protecting our maritime interests and resources from various threats,” he added.

He then called on the public, especially the youth, to support and join coastal clean-up and conservation activities—especially as the MANA Mo coincided with the observance of Fish Conservation Week, International Coastal Clean-up day, and National Maritime day

“Everything starts from each of us and with all of us working together, we will soon harvest the fruits of our hard work and realize a sustainable and greener future for everyone to enjoy,” he said.