The island-village of Barangay Manamoc has an area of 1,275 acres, about 300 households, and a population of about 1,900. Most residents make their living from fishing, seaweed cultivation, or farming, though many work at a nearby resort. In 2002, the villagers worked to establish a 267-acre marine protected area. Since then, the mean hard coral cover has risen from 18 percent to 25 percent.
The community has committed to support the marine protected area for 20 years. In return, a Seacology grant will fund a solar power system. It will provide clean, renewable electricity to the community’s preschool, elementary school, high schools, training center, health center, and community hall.
The community badly needs clean and affordable power. The village currently relies on diesel generators. Electricity is available only five to six hours each day, and it is expensive. The cost makes it impossible for public facilities to provide effective services to the community.
Our nonprofit partner, the Andres Soriano Foundation, will help implement the project.
