LAOAG CITY, July 14 -- Members of Ilocos Norte's Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) have approved a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to create the Amianan Marine Protected Area Network (AMPAN), marking a significant step toward strengthening marine biodiversity conservation and the sustainable management of coastal resources.

The agreement provides a framework for cooperation among local government units, national government agencies, and other stakeholders in managing interconnected marine protected areas in the coastal municipalities of Pagudpud, Bangui, Burgos, and Pasuquin.

"The initiative aims to improve the protection of coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and critical fish habitats while promoting the sustainable ...