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Philippines

Pantudlan

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Conservation benefit: Expansion of two marine protected areas for 20 years

Community benefit: Conversion of a Spanish-era lighthouse into a tourism center

Date Approved: 01.2010

Ecotourism

This project supports a local conservation-based tourism initiative.

Ocean

This project protects ocean ecosystems, making coastal communities more economically and physically secure in the face of climate change.

Marine resources abound in the waters surrounding Cabilao, an island in Bohol Province in central Philippines. Hammerhead sharks, pygmy seahorses, and hard and soft corals make the island a must-see, especially for scuba divers. There are two marine protected areas (no-take zones) around the island.

Tourism is concentrated around Baluarte Point, in the village of Pantudlan. Near this part of the island is the most frequented dive spot. A Spanish-era lighthouse there, long abandoned, is already a tourist attraction. If it were renovated, it could also be an ideal visitors center, providing information for tourists and displaying local island products.

Working with nonprofit partner PROCESS Bohol, Seacology will fund the renovation and conversion of the lighthouse. In return, Cabilao Island’s five villages will add 50 acres to the existing marine protected areas (25 acres to each) for 20 years.

Project Updates

January 2015

After the lighthouse was damaged by an earthquake, Seacology approved a grant for repairs, which have been completed.

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June 2011

According to project partner PROCESS Bohol, this project has been completed. The community inaugurated the refurbished lighthouse on May 18th; Field Representative Ferdie Marcelo attended the ceremony.

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January 2011

Renovation began in earnest last July under the supervision an architect from the National Historical Institute, to ensure that the original century-old structure will be preserved. The framing for the roofing is already completed. Application for anti-termites and rust is ongoing in preparation for the installation of the ceramic clay roof tiles, which were already ordered. Our partner, PROCESS Bohol, sees the lighthouse renovation being completed by February 2011.

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June 2010

Field representative Ferdie Marcelo reports that since receiving Seacology funds in April, not much work has been done because of national and local elections. The project contact hopes to begin work on the renovation after the elected officials have been proclaimed on June 30, when local government assistance is more consistent.

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