Two biodiversity-friendly community enterprises were inaugurated on August 13, 2026, in Oriental Mindoro, strengthening conservation efforts in two communities recognized as Para El Mar Champions for excellence in locally managed marine protected areas (MPAs).
The projects were launched in Ranzo, Pinamalayan, a 2025 Para El Mar Champion, and Agsalin, Gloria, a 2017 Para El Mar Champion. Both communities have been long-standing conservation partners of the Malampaya Foundation, with partnerships dating back to 2013.
Community Water Refilling Station Opens in Ranzo
In Ranzo, a community water refilling station was formally turned over to the Samahan ng Mangingisda ng Ranzo, providing cleaner and more accessible potable water to residents of Ranzo and nearby communities.
The enterprise was made possible by the rehabilitation of the community water system, completed in 2025 through a partnership among the Malampaya Foundation, Manila Water Foundation, the barangay, and the Municipal Government of Pinamalayan.
Beyond providing an essential community service, the water refilling station will generate income that can help sustain local conservation efforts.
Coastal Tourist Huts Strengthen Ecotourism in Agsalin
In Agsalin, three concrete coastal tourist huts were turned over to the Samahan ng Mangingisda ng Agsalin as part of the community’s ecotourism initiative.
The new structures replace wooden huts that were damaged by typhoons, providing a more durable facility for visitors while creating livelihood opportunities for the community. The project supports Agsalin’s continuing efforts to link sustainable tourism with marine conservation.
Enterprise for Conservation
Both projects are designed as conservation enterprises, with 10–15% of their net profits allocated to conservation activities. This approach creates a sustainable source of funding for community-led marine resource management while providing livelihood and economic opportunities for local residents.
The inaugurations were graced by Pinamalayan Mayor Rodolfo Magsino and Gloria Mayor Teresita Ong, both staunch supporters of marine conservation and community-based resource management in their respective municipalities.
Recognizing Communities that Protect the Marine Environment
The Ranzo and Agsalin fish sanctuaries, or marine protected areas, have demonstrated excellent management, biological recovery, and improved ecosystem services despite their relatively small sizes. These achievements earned both communities recognition as Para El Mar Champions in the Locally Managed category—Ranzo in 2025 and Agsalin in 2017.
Held biennially, Para El Mar is a hallmark of excellence and innovation in marine conservation. The awards recognize communities, organizations, MPA managers and practitioners, and leaders whose dedication and innovation help safeguard the Philippines’ rich coastal and marine resources.
Through these new enterprises, the Malampaya Foundation and its community partners are taking the next step in making conservation not only an environmental commitment, but also a source of sustainable livelihood—helping ensure that the communities protecting their marine resources can continue to do so for generations to come.
