Aboitiz unit leads giant clam conservation project in Quezon Province

By Rowena Cruz AboitizPower subsidiary, Therma Luzon, Inc., has partnered with the Aboitiz Foundation and the Pagbilao local government to l...

By Rowena Cruz

AboitizPower subsidiary, Therma Luzon, Inc., has partnered with the Aboitiz Foundation and the Pagbilao local government to launch a giant clam conservation project. (Photo from AboitizPower)

PAGBILAO, Quezon – Aiming to conserve endangered giant clams, AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Luzon, Inc. (TLI) has recently launched a significant new initiative. This project focuses on protecting and promoting the growth of these vital creatures within the local marine ecosystem.

Partnering with the Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (AFI) and the local government of Pagbilao, Quezon, the project is part of the “Likas Kayang Hibasanan” program. This initiative seeks to not only increase the giant clam population but also enhance local livelihoods and create sustainable eco-tourism opportunities in Pagbilao.



By involving the community in the conservation effort, the project aims to foster a sense of responsibility and ownership towards protecting the marine environment. It is hoped that this will lead to long-term sustainable practices that benefit both the local community and the delicate marine ecosystem.

The Giant Clam Conservation Project will provide giant clams, known locally as Taklobo, to residents and members of the Samahan ng Mangingisda ng Banlisan at Pantoc (SMBP). These individuals will receive comprehensive training to ensure the successful reproduction of these endangered creatures.

This training will cover various aspects of giant clam care, including proper handling, feeding techniques, and ideal habitat conditions. By equipping the community with the necessary knowledge and skills, the project aims to empower them to become active participants in the conservation efforts.

"This initiative goes beyond just livelihood; it's about safeguarding our oceans," stated Mayor Gigi Portes at the project launch. She expressed appreciation for AboitizPower's continued support in environmental and community development programs.

To ensure the project's success, stakeholders participated in a benchmarking activity at the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI) in Bolinao, Pangasinan. Representatives from the Municipal Agriculture Office, Bantay Dagat of Pagbilao, SMBP, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and TLI gained valuable insights into best practices for giant clam conservation.

"This project empowers our community to protect our marine environment while creating sustainable income opportunities," said SMBP President Roger Canares.

Lou Jason Deligencia, AboitizPower AVP for Corporate Services, highlighted the project's alignment with the company's commitment to environmental stewardship and community development. "This initiative will protect our marine ecosystem, provide new livelihoods, and promote tourism in Pagbilao," he affirmed.

The giant clams are scheduled to be turned over to the community in the first half of 2025, coinciding with warmer weather conditions that are ideal for their release.