As already reported in this column sometime ago, we found that of the 564 marine reserves in the whole Visayas region of the country, only about 33% or one-third has been found to be functional, that is, successfully conserving marine biodiversity, including the maintenance of fishery stocks. The question is what characteristics contribute to the functionality of marine reserves? If these characteristics are known, then maybe managers of the more than 1,000 marine reserves in the country can be guided to ensure the success of their efforts in establishing these reserves.

A number of publications on marine reserves have come out in past five years (e.g. Haribon Foundation, 2005; Miclat et al., 2008; PhilReefs, 2003, 2005, 2008) but only few (e.g. White et al., 2006; Samoilys et al. 2007) have attempted to determine the factors responsible for the functionality of  marine reserves. Hence, there is a need for the present study to inform those presently managing marine reserves and also those planning to establish more marine reserves.

My colleague, Former CHED Commissioner Dr. Roberto N. Padua, made a statistical analysis of the information contained in our book “Directory of Marine Reserves in the Visayas, Philippines, 2008.” He used cluster analysis and binary logistic regression to ascertain the determinants of the functionality or non-functionality of the 564 marine reserves in the area. A complete enumeration of the characteristics of these 564 marine reserves in the area is available in the book. These characteristics are the basis of his analysis.

His results showed that the characteristics related to the management of a reserve (current manager, infrastructure support, monitoring and evaluation) contributed significantly to its functionality. Marine reserves managed by non-government organizations were more likely to succeed than those managed by a government entity. Likewise, he found that, in terms of the biological and physical characteristics, marine reserves with good, heterogenous marine habitats stood a better chance of success than those with simplified or degraded habitats.

            Dr. Padua states the implications of his findings, and I quote: “…establishing a marine reserve and then followed by a benign neglect is a disastrous strategy. First, the fisherfolk who may be adversely affected by the “no take” policy could lose whatever trust and faith they have for the benefits to be derived from marine protection. Second, local politicians who usually respond quite quickly to the sentiments of their constituencies will be forced to reject ordinances and other issuances that relate to the establishment of new marine reserves (which, by the way, is still needed in view of the relatively small sea areas that are currently managed and protected relative to the total sea area of the Philippines.) Third, and most importantly, opposition to the establishment of new marine reserves by coastal communities could mount, being thus provided with a reason why marine reserves should not be established.”

            Local government units, NGOs, government agencies should learn valuable lessons from our book and Dr. Padua’s comments.