With the theme, “Life Below Water for People and Planet”, WWD 2019 focuses on marine species, highlighting the critical issues and values of marine wildlife to our everyday lives. The activity also aims to highlight the opportunity to celebrate various successful initiatives to conserve and sustainably manage these species, and to gear up support for future endeavors.

In her talk during the Symposium, Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) Director Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez emphasized the role of the youth in the conservation and protection of our natural resources. “You are the all catalysts of change, your actions no matter how small they are can bring a huge impact to our environment,” said Director Rodriguez.

The celebration of the WWD 2019 was marked by a series of events and activities. As part of the activities, the DENR headed by Regional Executive Director Atty. Gil A. Aromin, CESO IV and the Provincial Government of Albay through the leadership of Governor Al Francis C. Bichara conducted the following activities: Poster and Slogan Making, Essay Writing, Mobile Photography and Quiz Bee. All these activities are aimed at raising the awareness of the youth on the importance of life below water and highlight what they can contribute in the protection and conservation of our ecosystem.

Meanwhile, RED Aromin in his message said, “This day is an eye opener for all of us to develop our sense of connection to help reduce the threat to our marine species. Stop using plastic.” RED Aromin added that the youth plays a great role in the preservation of Mother Nature for they are the ones who will inherit the gains of a healthy environment.###