SAN JOSE, Antique – The Philippine Army and the local government of Anini-y, where the famous Nogas Island is located, partnered to help restore the damaged coral reefs of the Island.

The Philippine News Agency reported that the 3rd Infantry Division with the 301st Infantry Brigade and the 82nd IB based in Miag-ao, Iloilo, entered into a partnership with LGU Anini-y represented by Mayor Reynaldo Pollicar.

The partnership was made possible with the assistance of the of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the University of San Carlos (USC) through the “Filipinnovation” on National Coral Restoration Program.

The program, according to DOST, aims to promote science-based coral reef management; establish technology pilot demo sites for coral restoration and propagation; and establish innovative scaled up model for coral reef enhancement using electric mineral growth technology.

Cesario Pagdilao, DOST deputy executive director for Aquatic and Marine Resources, said the project is important because Nogas Island is notable for its tourism potential.

Under the partnership, the DOST and the 3rd Infantry Division will assist Anini-y in the protection, preservation and restoration of the coral reefs for one year but reminded the LGU to always ensure that reefs are protected and properly managed.

The parties signed a memorandum of understanding last year. The Army will take part in restoring two hectares of coral reef or 20,000 coral fragments in Anini-y and likewise routinely monitor the growth of these coral fragments and plant them in destroyed areas.*PIA