Summary
Highlights
The Philippines, with over 7000 islands, boasts some of the richest seas globally, housing the most diverse marine species. The Philippine Rise, a newly discovered area, is said to be abundant enough to feed the entire nation. However, this critical marine ecosystem faces severe threats from overfishing, illegal fishing, climate change, and pollution, with predictions indicating a drastic decline in fish and an increase in ocean plastic by 2050.
Underwater photographer and diver, Atom Araullo, embarks on a special 10-day journey across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to document the current state of the Philippine ocean. He aims to capture images and stories that highlight the beauty of the marine life and the challenges they face, serving as an instrument for change.
The journey begins in the Tañon Strait in Visayas, the largest marine protected area in the archipelago. In Bais, Negros Oriental, dolphin watching has been a significant attraction for over two decades. The area is home to numerous spinner dolphins, known for their playful nature and aerial acrobatics. Dolphins are carnivorous, feeding on small fish and squid, and rest in shallow waters during the day.
The documentary captures a rare sight of dolphins mating, highlighting their tactile nature. Dolphin watching in Tañon Strait generates substantial income for Bais, supporting tourism and the livelihoods of boatmen like Mang Ricardo. Historically, dolphins were considered rivals by fishermen, leading to their killing. However, with the shift to dolphin watching tourism, former adversaries have become their staunch protectors, with strict bans on harming these marine mammals.
As part of the Tañon Strait tour, the Manjuyod sandbar, often called the 'Maldives of the Philippines,' is featured. This 7-kilometer stretch of white sand emerges during low tide and disappears at high tide, offering a unique natural experience. The Tañon Strait, declared a protected seascape, is a crucial habitat for 11 out of 24 marine mammal species found in the Philippines, though its vastness makes protection challenging, as evidenced by a commercial fishing vessel being blocked from the area.