Filipino fisherfolk affected by fossil fuel projects in the Verde Island Passage were featured at a United Nations Ocean Conference side event.
Avril de Torres of the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED) spoke at a session titled “Local Leadership on the Frontlines of the Ocean-Climate Nexus.”
She outlined the impacts of industrial development on fishing communities and marine ecosystems in the Philippines.
“Our fisherfolk and coastal communities are leading the resistance against fossil gas expansion and destructive industrial activities across our seas and coasts,” said de Torres.
She said the Verde Island Passage reflects the broader pattern of marine destruction in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, where industrial activities threaten livelihoods, food security, and the cultural integrity of coastal communities—even in areas globally recognized for their exceptional marine biodiversity.
The Verde Island Passage (VIP) spans Batangas, Oriental Mindoro, and nearby provinces. It is known as a critical marine biodiversity area.
Batangas hosts five of the Philippines’ six operating gas plants. It is also the site of 10 out of 35 proposed liquefied natural gas (LNG) and gas-fired power plants.
Two LNG import terminals are operational, with three more in development. These add up to 11.8 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) in planned capacity.
“Communities are bearing the brunt of these fossil fuel developments,” de Torres said. “Fishers along the coasts of Batangas report that catch volumes have dropped significantly since operations began. Where they once hauled 10 kilograms of fish, now they consider it a good day to bring in just 10 pieces.”
In February 2023, the MT Princess Empress, carrying 900,000 liters of industrial oil, sank off Oriental Mindoro. CEED estimated the damage at PHP 41.2 billion. The vessel was chartered by a subsidiary of San Miguel Corporation.
De Torres noted that compensation to affected communities has been insufficient. Some families received only P20,000, which she said was not enough to cover months of lost income, particularly for those with children in school.
Many fisherfolk who previously caught over 100 kilograms of fish a day now bring in less than one kilogram, earning as little as P200 daily.
The session also included Indigenous leaders, small-scale fishers, and coastal defenders. They discussed the ocean’s role in sustaining cultural traditions and community life.
De Torres renewed calls to nominate the Verde Island Passage as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The designation, she said, would help protect both biodiversity and cultural heritage.
The UN Ocean Conference will end on June 13. It will conclude with the launch of the Nice Action Plan for ocean protection and climate resilience.
