MARINE LIFE. The underwater of Sogod Bay in Southern Leyte in this file photo. The Department of Tourism in Eastern Visayas on Tuesday (May 26, 2026) underscored the importance of balancing marine conservation with livelihood protection during the closing of the dive conversations held as part of the three-day Sogod Bay Underwater Experience. (File photo of PNA)
PADRE BURGOS, Southern Leyte – The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Eastern Visayas underscored the importance of balancing marine conservation with livelihood protection during the closing of the dive conversations held as part of the recent three-day Sogod Bay Underwater Experience.
In her message on Tuesday, DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes called on various stakeholders to participate in such dialogues aimed at strengthening cooperation to protect Sogod Bay’s marine resources.
“Dive tourism and marine conservation are closely connected. Divers travel from various places to experience healthy reefs and thriving marine life. This is why protecting our seas also supports tourism and local livelihoods,” Tiopes said.
Tiopes said the gathering, held from May 20 to 23, served as an open and inclusive platform where stakeholders were encouraged to share their experiences, concerns, and ideas regarding the future of the bay and its dive tourism industry.
She noted that communities around Sogod Bay have long relied on the sea for food, livelihoods, culture, and survival, with fishing sustaining families for generations.
However, she acknowledged the ongoing challenge of balancing economic needs with environmental protection to ensure marine resources remain available for future generations.
The DOT regional chief stressed that discussions among communities, tourism operators, and government agencies are essential for fostering mutual understanding of how individual actions affect marine ecosystems over time.
Tiopes also expressed hope that the insights shared by guests and participants would demonstrate how dive tourism in other destinations has supported both conservation efforts and local livelihoods through cooperation among communities and local governments.
She highlighted the ecological significance of Sogod Bay, citing its rich marine biodiversity, healthy coral reefs, and unique dive sites that continue to draw divers from around the world.
She also recognized that fishing remains a primary source of livelihood for many families in Southern Leyte, emphasizing that the goal is not to choose between conservation and livelihoods, but to achieve a sustainable balance between the two.
“What we are really aiming for is balance — ensuring that our seas continue to provide for our needs today while remaining healthy enough to sustain future generations,” Tiopes said.
She also encouraged stakeholders to commit to simple yet meaningful actions, including practicing responsible fishing, protecting coral reefs, improving tourism operations, and supporting sound governance and environmental policies.
“If we each take one small step that we can truly commit to, then together those steps can create meaningful change,” she said. (PNA)