06/04/2023
The CRM focus evolved from the realization of WBA member-LGUs over their heavy reliance on land-based industries – rubber and coconut. The cocolisap (coconut scale insect) and the recent pestalotiopsis (leaf fall disease) infestation awakened them to their economic vulnerability and how this infestation affected the dependent families and enterprises. As they scan their economic resources, they found out that they have not taken equal interest and focused on their coastal resources, given that the whole province is an insular one.
The road towards Coastal Resources Management (CRM) for WBA started with the engagement of the late Dr. Filemon Romero, a marine scientist and professor emeritus from Mindanao State University (MSU) – Tawi-Tawi. Initial design exploration on aqua-silviculture was pursued. Upon his advice, a technical partnership was pursued with the Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST). The partnership focused on SCUBA diving and participatory coastal resources assessment (PCRA) through the ZSCMST’s Office of the Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES) and the Dive Center.
As the conversation and partnership with the AECID-funded and IAG-managed “Modelling Inter-LGU Alliance in Basilan” (MILAB) Project progresses, the proposal evolved from a simple dive center as a social enterprise and practicum center into what is now the Coastal Resources Development and Training Center (CRDT) Center engaged in CRM advocacy, research, shared facility, and training.
