Preserving Paradise: A Reporting Series on
Protected Areas of the Philippines
2022 was declared the “Year of Protected Areas” in the Philippines to mark the 90th anniversary of protected area establishment in the country. But while the Philippines is among the world’s megadiverse countries, it is tagged as a biodiversity hotspot. The archipelago is also one of the countries most affected by climate change.
Climate Tracker Asia fellows from Eastern Samar produced stories on the role of protected areas in the fight against climate change.
This is supported by Oxfam Pilipinas.
Artificial insemination sparked hope for India’s rare bird, but race for renewables may decide its fate
India’s renewable energy boom is vital for climate action. But in Rajasthan, it’s colliding with conservation. The Great Indian Bustard — critically endangered and down to fewer than 130 — is being squeezed out by expanding solar farms and deadly transmission lines.
Resilient fishers and coral reefs: Surviving climate change in the Philippines
Negros Occidental’s coral reefs are fading, and so are the fishers’ livelihoods. With climate change and overfishing depleting marine life, local conservation efforts offer hope—but can reefs survive the warming seas?
A hope for bleaching corals: Are there climate-resilient coral reefs in the Philippines?
As coral bleaching threatens the Philippines' reefs, scientists search for climate refugia—areas where corals can survive. Citizen science aids the search in the Bohol Sea.
Peatlands in peril: Lack of studies threatens Philippines’ carbon stores
A scientist calls for increased research to identify and protect Philippine peatlands, crucial natural carbon stores facing threats from human activity and lack of awareness.
Climate movement in Eastern Visayas gains momentum, but lacks focus on biodiversity issues
Despite the presence of lush forests and surrounding waters, there is a lack of groups in Eastern Visayas that are focused on protecting these important ecosystems.
Bantay Dagat, communities clash as LGU doubles down on protection policies
Members of Bantay Dagat or community-based sea patrols tasked with protecting marine protected areas face threats and silent clashes with fishers in Quinapondan, Eastern Samar.
