CONSERVATION AT THE HEART OF THE PHILIPPINES: MPIF Brings Shore It Up! to Marinduque and the Verde Island Passage

Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF), the corporate social responsibility arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), officially launched its flagship environLmental program, Shore It Up! (SIU), in the island province of Marinduque, with a threeday series of activities dedicated to marine protection, conservation, and community engagement.

- MARINE PEREZ

Known as the heart-shaped island of the Philippines, Marinduque is surrounded by Tayabas Bay, Mongpong Pass, Sibuyan Sea, and Mindoro. The province is abundant in marine life, rich in culture, and steadily recognized for its strong tourism potential.

Launch of Shore It Up! Marinduque The weekend opened with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between MPIF and the Provincial Government of Marinduque (PGOM), represented by Vice Governor Romulo Bacorro, Jr.

Under the agreement, MPIF and PGOM will implement the Marine Protection, Inspection, and Conservation (MPIC) Guardians program across key coastal barangays. A total of 12 Marine Guardians will be trained and deployed to safeguard marine ecosystems and support coastal law enforcement, equipped with training, uniforms, gear, and a monthly allowance to carry out their role.

The partnership also covers the long-term protection of mangrove ecosystems, vital as natural barriers against storm surges and as nurseries for marine life. To sustain the initiative, PGOM committed to backing the program with ordinances, monitoring systems, and coordination with government agencies.