Marine Key Biodiversity Area (MKBA) Connectivity Model

Pursuant to the guidelines on the development/management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in support of the establishment of MPA Networks (MPANs) under Technical Bulletin No. 2017-06 of the Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Program (CMEMP), the foreign-assisted initiative titled ‘Strengthening the Marine Protected Areas to Conserve Marine Key Biodiversity Areas in the Philippines’ or SMARTSEAS PH project aimed to address inadequate biogeographic representation and spatial coverage of MPAs, specifically to scale-up MPAs to MPA Networks and strengthen its management effectiveness. The project in partnership with the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP MSI) developed a connectivity study or model to understand further interactions of different MPAs in relation to the known life histories of many marine species. It basically demonstrated how larvae of marine organisms are dispersed and distributed using the patterns of water circulation. The model served as reference in properly delineating and identifying critical habitats (i.e., coral reefs, seagrass and mangroves, areas with higher retention or dispersal of particles such as larvae and pollutants) and important MPAs (i.e. locally managed MPAs) that needs be included in the network. Likewise, it also provided recommendations on potential sites where new MPAs can be established. The connectivity study/model served as an important science-based decision making tool which ultimately convinced local chief executives (LCEs) to cooperate and enter into an agreement forming MPANs. Using the connectivity model as an anchor, the project was able to develop three (3) MPANs which include the Verde Island Passage MPA Network and Law Enforcement Network (VIP MPAN LEN), the Lanuza Bay MPA Network (LB MPAN) and the Davao Gulf MPA Network (DG MPAN). Specifically, the recognition and adoption of the Davao Gulf MPAN under the Davao Integrated Development Program (DIDP) Board Resolution No. 2 series of 2018, later led to the establishment of the three (3) provincial sub-networks of MPAs and its management council under Davao Oriental Provincial Executive Order No. 29 series of 2021. Based on the connectivity study, the project also formulated and crafted a Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) among the DENR, DILG and DA for the Establishment and Management of MPA Networks. The JMC was signed by the DENR on December 23, 2020 and awaiting completion of approval process from DILG and DA.