Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park

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Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park
Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park
8°16′06″N123°50′58″E / 8.26832°N 123.84955°E / 8.26832; 123.84955
Date openedFebruary 2003
LocationNational Highway Ozamiz-Oroquieta, Tudela, 7202 Misamis Occidental, Philippines
Annual visitors20,000 (2016)
Website www.misocc.gov.ph/tourism/

Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park [1] is a tropical resort and habitat for various marine mammals in Mindanao, Philippines. It is located within the boundaries of the Tudela and Sinacaban municipalities. It houses a wildlife park with a variety of animals, most of whom are native to the Philippines. The park also contains hotel accommodations and a restaurant.

Contents

Currently, Dolphin Island is undergoing rehabilitation and is temporarily closed to visitors until further notice. [2]

History and development

The coastal region of Misamis Occidental extends over 162 kilometers and features an ecosystem rich with shoals and reefs, essential for the local population's livelihood. This area not only offers scenic beauty but also plays a crucial role in the sustenance of many local communities through its abundant marine resources.

However, the region has faced challenges due to unsustainable fishing practices, including the use of dynamite, leading to depleted fish stocks and environmental degradation. This situation has threatened the economic stability of those reliant on fishing for their livelihoods, prompting intervention to preserve both the environment and the local economy. [3]

In response, the Misamis Occidental provincial government launched the Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Development and Protection Program (MOADPP) in 2002. [4] The initiative aimed to convert Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park into an eco-tourism site, enhancing revenue generation while prioritizing environmental preservation. The program allocated approximately 200 hectares for the development of facilities such as hotels, cottages, a mini zoo, function halls, restaurants, hatcheries, and a mangrove reforestation area. MOAPY Island was established as a haven for rescued dolphins and fish, while also serving as an area for aquaculture production.

Efforts to safeguard natural fish breeding grounds were intensified, with individuals previously engaged in harmful fishing practices receiving training in sustainable management and operation of the Aquamarine Park.[ citation needed ]

The Australian Agency for International Development (AUSAID) significantly contributed by supporting livelihood projects aimed at providing alternative sources of income for local families, thus aiding in the mitigation of unemployment rates. [5] The tourism boom linked to the Aquamarine Park further augmented job opportunities for the community.

Financial incentives were offered to groups of fishermen, with a mandate that 5% of the seed capital be directed towards a trust fund for ongoing conservation efforts. Noteworthy financial achievements include revenue from the hatchery totaling P162,109 and entrance fees generating P430,160 since 2004. The park's success in generating income led to a contribution of P1 million from its trust fund towards purchasing medicines for provincial hospitals, illustrating the broader positive effects of sustainable practices on community health and prosperity.[ citation needed ]

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References

  1. ↑ http://www.misocc.gov.ph/moap_menu.html Homepage of MOAP
  2. ↑ "panaon.com". panaon.com.
  3. ↑ "Stop Unsustainable Fishing in Philippine Coral Reefs and Mangrove Forests". Rainforest Trust. Retrieved 2023-12-31.
  4. ↑ "Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Development and Protection Program". galingpook.org. Retrieved 2023-12-15.
  5. ↑ Trade, corporateName= Department of Foreign Affairs and. "Australian Embassy in". philippines.embassy.gov.au. Retrieved 2023-12-15.


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