Coron, Palawan — Various stakeholders celebrated the launch of an expanded marine protected area on June 22, 2016 at Lajala, Coron that was legislated on March 21, 2016 through municipal resolution number 50 series of 2016.

The expansion enabled the coverage of additional biologically-significant areas that include fringing reefs and lush mangrove areas surrounding Lajala island.

Malampaya Foundation Inc. entered into a conservation agreement with stakeholders of the island in August 2015 to foster cooperation and partnership for marine biodiversity conservation and coastal resource management actions that aim to regenerate damaged reefs, mangroves and beach forest areas, among others.

Lajala Chairman Allan Mundia, Municipal councillor Yuri Palanca
and MFI Executive Director Karen Agabin lead the ceremonial
installation of a buoy-marker at a corner point of the marine protected area.
Municipal councillor Yuri Palanca leads the oath-taking
of volunteer bantay dagats of Lajala.
Mural-painted wall of Lajala school bearing conservation message is showcased.