MPIF sets aside P12M for Tubbataha

THE Metro Pacific Investment Foundation (MPIF), the corporate social responsibility arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC), has allocated P12 million to help protect the Tubbataha Reefs in the next four years.

In a statement on Friday, the MPIF said it signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) to provide P3 million annually to the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, which will cover research initiatives and protection activities among other efforts. This will be in partnership with the Tubbataha Protected Area Management Board (TPAMB) and Friends of Tubbataha Inc. (FOT).

“Tubbataha is one of the country’s natural treasures and a crown jewel of Philippine marine biodiversity. The private sector can play a meaningful role by supporting conservation efforts alongside government and communities,” MPIC Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Manuel V. Pangilinan was quoted as saying.

“Through this partnership, we hope to help ensure that Tubbataha remains a thriving marine sanctuary for generations of Filipinos.”

The MoA builds on the MPIF’s “Shore It Up! Tubbataha” program, where it provided P8 million in support from 2022 to 2025.

Under the agreement, TPAMB will provide on-ground coordination and access to conservation resources, while the FOT will be tasked to manage and disburse funds. The MPIF will focus on implementing the program, mobilizing volunteers, and amplifying awareness.

The 97,030-hectare marine protected area, located in the Sulu Sea, falls within the Coral Triangle, the global center of marine biodiversity. Tubbataha Reefs, a UNESCO World Heritage and Ramsar Site, is home to more than 360 coral species and hundreds of fish species. — CAT