STUDENTS of University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines planted artificial coral reefs in the coastal waters of Panaon, Misamis Occidental to help protect marine life and combat reef degradation.

USTP said its Marine Biology students tagged along with the Local Government Unit of Panaon in ‘enhancing marine biodiversity and combat the depletion of natural coral reefs.’

A total of five artificial reefs were planted during the drive held last month in selected locations to maximize the impact of the project.

These were made from concrete, PVC pipes, and recycled bottles to mimic the natural habitat of coral reefs.

“The initiative aims to protect and rehabilitate the local marine ecosystem. It serves as an educational landscape for students to engage more while enjoying their stay as BSMB students of USTP,” the university said in a statement.

“…the sustainable efforts of the USTP Panaon demonstrate the importance of community engagement and innovative solutions in addressing environmental challenges, offering hope for the future of marine conservation,” it added.

Marine conservation is integral to the Philippines as the fishing industry is a vital piece of the economy, providing 1.6 million jobs and 1.3 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product.