On May 18–21, 2026, the Local Government Unit of Casiguran, through the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), provided assistance in the conduct of a marine assessment activity within the Artificial Reef in Cozo and the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Dibet and Casapsapan-Dimatbung. The activity was initiated by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region III.

The assessment aimed to evaluate the condition and effectiveness of the artificial reef deployed in 2021, as well as assess the current status of the two established Marine Protected Areas within the municipality. The activity involved underwater surveys, fish and benthic habitat assessments, and documentation through photo and video recording. The results will serve as a scientific basis for improving management strategies, strengthening conservation efforts, and supporting informed decision-making at the local level.

The following are the initial findings and observations of the BFAR Region III assessment team:

Artificial Reef in Cozo

The artificial reef structures remain intact, with no observed damage during the assessment. Coral recruits attached to the structures were highly evident, indicating continuous coral recruitment and colonization. Numerous reef fish were also observed utilizing the artificial reefs as shelter and habitat.

Marine Protected Area in Dibet

Only patches of live corals, along with areas of damaged coral colonies, were observed within the MPA. Based on initial observations, the coral cover condition may be classified as poor; however, this assessment is still subject to validation through photo transect analysis.

Marine Protected Area in Casapsapan-Dimatbung

Initial field observations showed that the MPA exhibited fair to good live coral cover conditions. Final assessment and classification will still be validated through photo transect analysis.

The data gathered from this activity will be utilized in the implementation and strengthening of the Integrated Coastal Management Plan of Casiguran.

This activity also forms part of the celebration of Ocean Month 2026 with the theme, “Sustaining Ocean Health, Sailing a Resilient Nation,” and would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our Municipal Mayor, Hon. Roynald S. Soriano.