By Emmanuel Canto

In an effort to draft local shark conservation policy, the Sipalay City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) recently facilitated the Save Sharks Network Philippines (SSNP) shark conservation legislation toolkit workshop at the New Sipalay Government Hall.
With a national shark conservation bill currently stalled in Congress, local government units are being urged to pass local legislation endorsing the legislation.
“Conserving sharks in the Philippines is in our best interest as their presence is beneficial to our economy and ecosystems,” explained SSNP co-convener Anna Oposa. “We are happy that local governments and communities have taken the initiative to protect sharks in their waters.”
The workshop attracted around 30 participants.
Subsequently, the organization also hosted information, education, and communication activities for nearly 300 local students, ranging from Grades 7 to 10.
“Increased awareness and appreciation of sharks and marine life is important among children and youth because they will be caretakers of Sipalay City in the future,” said Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines director, Dr. AA Yaptinchay./EC, WDJ