ECORESCUE
APO REEF, Mindoro
December, 2005

ECORESCUE (ER) is a Philippine-based non-profit, non-governmental, volunteer organization composed of groups of environmentalists borne out of several years of implementing progressive conservation and environmental programs.

The VISION of ER is a self-managed and sustainable environmental society that becomes a significant contributor to the overall planetary balance.

The MISSION of ER is to revolutionize and synergize frontline marine environmental and conservation programs to become a dynamic, popular, and applied lifestyle for generations to come.

When I got the call from ER co-founder Boy Siojo asking if I was interested in volunteering for the first of a series of live-aboards that they were organizing, i did not hesitate. The event would take us diving at Apo Reef and Puerto Galera in Mindoro on board the M/Y Tristar.

The aim of the live-aboard series was to convert recreational divers into environmental divers. Marine biologists from ReefCheck Philippines were onboard to give lectures on how to conduct a reef check and the data collected would make up the report that would be forwarded to ReefCheck International.

We were happy to find that the marine life in Apo Reef is excellent. Although evidence of previous dynamite fishing is apparent, the reef is teeming with diverse species of aquatic life and corals are flourishing. Declared a sanctuary in 1996, the reef is frequently visited by sharks, turtles and mantas. Diving the walls of the atoll, one looks out into the deep blue in hopes of catching sight of pelagics. Not to be discounted, the residents on the wall itself are a wonder. Various corals and reef fish such as anemone fish, puffer fish and fusillers reside within the nooks and crannys.

With the newfound knowledge we gained from the lectures, we came ashore with a new sense of purpose. If we are to continue enjoying the beauty of our reefs, we must have a sense of collective ownership and ensure that these ecosystems survive for future generations.

To volunteer, log on to: www.ecorescue.org



ECORESCUE founder Boy Siojo and his co-founders on deck. The M/Y Tristar volunteered its services to the endeavor.


View of the MY/Tristar from the top of the lighthouse on Ranger Island.


Lesley Aquino of EcoRescue monitors marine life in Apo Reef.






Using transect lines, fish identification slates, and an indicator checklist, divers conduct a reef check off Apo Reef.





Residents of Apo Reef.