Lila, Bohol – In an effort to protect and develop potential diving sites in the area, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Lila has taken steps to assess and preserve these sites.
On June 15, 2023, the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO) through the Coastal Resource Management Division (CRMD), PNP-BPPO, and DENR-CENRO Tagbilaran Personnel/Divers joined together for a Proposed Potential Diving Site Assessment.
Based on the initial assessment conducted by DENR technical divers, two areas have been declared as potentially suitable for diving sites. This is an exciting finding for both the local government and the diving community.
To ensure the preservation and sustainability of these potential diving sites, the DENR has recommended several activities. These include conducting an Underwater Clean-up to remove any debris or waste that may be present, removal of Crown-of-Thorns (COT) starfish, and a Biophysical Underwater Assessment.
The assessment will help determine the overall condition of the fish, macro invertebrates, and corals in the area.
The LGU will soon be drafting letters to formalize these recommendations made by the DENR.
These letters will likely be addressed to the appropriate authorities, stakeholders, or organizations involved in managing the diving sites or providing support for the activities.
This initiative by LGU Lila is a step towards protecting and developing potential diving sites in the area. It is hoped that these efforts will lead to sustainable tourism and economic growth for the local community.