Tagkawayan LGU pioneers smart buoy technology to protect Awasan Reef

By Rowena Cruz Collaborative initiative in Tagkawayan utilizes smart buoys to ensure sustainable fishing and protect marine biodiversity. (T...

By Rowena Cruz

Collaborative initiative in Tagkawayan utilizes smart buoys to ensure sustainable fishing and protect marine biodiversity. (Tagkawayan PIO)

TAGKAWAYAN, Quezon - Awasan Reef, a vital marine protected area (MPA) in Tagkawayan, is now equipped with anchor blocks and smart buoys featuring solar-powered lights.

This recent initiative marks a significant step forward in the municipality’s commitment to marine conservation. The technology will guide fishermen and seafarers, especially during nighttime navigation, while clearly marking the boundaries of the protected zone to prevent accidental entry and illegal fishing activities.



Mayor Carlo Eleazar, during the launch, emphasized that the project represents the municipality’s dedication to safeguarding its marine treasures. He highlighted the importance of Awasan Reef as a cradle of marine biodiversity and its crucial role in supporting local livelihoods.

The project is a collaborative effort between the Tagkawayan Agriculture Office, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator (MPDC), and TK Divers. The Agriculture Office is particularly enthusiastic about the project’s potential to benefit both the environment and the local community.

“This project is a testament to the collaborative spirit within our community,” stated a representative from the Tagkawayan Agriculture Office. “By working hand-in-hand with the MPDC and TK Divers, we are demonstrating the power of partnership in achieving our shared goals for marine conservation.”

“We believe this initiative will have a profound impact on the livelihoods of our local fishermen,” they continued. “A healthy reef means a thriving fishing industry, and by protecting Awasan Reef, we are ensuring a sustainable source of income for generations to come.”

The smart buoys serve a dual purpose: they act as navigational aids, preventing accidental entry into the MPA, and also deter those who might intentionally encroach upon the protected area for illegal fishing or resource extraction. Equipped with solar-powered lights, the buoys are highly visible at night, enhancing safety for seafarers and reinforcing the boundaries of the MPA.

The local government unit (LGU) plans to extend this initiative to other MPAs within the municipality, including the popular diving spot, Manlanat Reef, and the seagrass beds of Calauag Bay. The Agriculture Office aims to replicate this success in all its MPAs and is confident that this technology will significantly contribute to the overall health of the municipality’s coastal waters.

This move reinforces their commitment to maintaining the health and productivity of Tagkawayan’s marine environment. The MPDC envisions a network of protected areas where marine life can thrive, ensuring the ecological balance of their waters for future generations.

This project exemplifies Tagkawayan’s proactive approach to marine conservation, leveraging technology to ensure the long-term sustainability of its coastal resources. The initiative has garnered praise from environmental organizations and serves as a model for other coastal communities seeking to protect their marine environments.