DOST to set artificial reefs in Tagum City to boost marine biodiversity

From the DOST public archive. Original source publication date: 2025-08-29. Captured 2026-09-04. Read the original DOST source.

This record preserves information as published on the source website. It does not confirm that a historical opportunity, deadline, service requirement, contact, or planned project is current. Check with the responsible DOST office before acting.

Staged text edition: Source images are not included because image recovery was blocked. The captured article text is preserved; illustrations remain pending recovery.

To protect the rich marine biodiversity from further decline, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 11 has partnered with the Local Government of Tagum to install 100 artificial coral reefs (ACRs) in the city's coastal waters.

The need for artificial reefs in Tagum arises from growing concerns about the deterioration of natural coral ecosystems due to environmental stressors such as climate change, illegal fishing practices, and coastal development.

Many of the city's marine protected areas (MPAs) have faced coral degradation, which impacts fish populations and the livelihoods of communities that depend on fishing.

To initiate this project, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) was recently signed by Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy and Engr. Judy Donna Nueva Ecija, Provincial Director of Tagum City.

The installation of artificial coral reefs is viewed as a science-based intervention aimed at encouraging coral growth, enhancing fish habitats, and restoring ecological balance. Once deployed, the ACRs are expected to serve as breeding and feeding grounds for marine life, helping replenish fish stocks and maintain biodiversity.

This initiative falls under the DOST Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program and is supported by the Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) framework. Both programs are designed to provide science-based solutions to local communities, especially in areas vulnerable to environmental and economic challenges.

"This project is a practical example of how science and technology can support local efforts to protect marine ecosystems," said DOST 11 Regional Director Dr. Anthony C. Sales.

For Tagum City, this collaboration builds on its existing marine conservation program. The local government has actively worked to protect and rehabilitate coastal resources, and its partnership with DOST 11 further enhances its ability to implement long-term environmental strategies.

The deployment and monitoring of the artificial reefs will be conducted in phases, with technical assistance from DOST 11 and coordination with local fisherfolk and barangay units. This project also paves the way for future science-based initiatives focused on environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable coastal development.

The CEST and GRIND programs are among the many initiatives of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions, Opportunities for All. For more information, visit www.dost.gov.ph.