Today, about 200 species of sharks and rays are going extinct. Should this occur, a negative and permanent impact on both the marine and human ecosystem will be irreversible.
Fortunately, with the support of the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines (MWWP), through the Save Sharks Network Philippines (SSNP), an action plan is in place to ensure that the “Shark Conservation Bill” is ratified into Philippine law. The bill has already passed its first reading in congress, spearheaded by Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and with endorsed by Sen. Risa Hontiveros.
Aside from this, RAROCO Insurance Brokers, Inc. will be hosting a series of events, entitled “Drink Like a Fish (DLAF),” which aims to raise awareness for shark and ray conservation. The entire series will also focus on supporting environmental non-profit organizations and various projects.
Its first event, “Drink Like a Fish: For the Love of Sharks,” will be held on November 9 at J Studio.
“For the Love of Sharks” aims to present the Philippine seas as an important habitat for more than 200 shark and ray species. The Philippines ranks 4th globally, just after Australia, Indonesia and Japan, for its shark habitat.
The event will have talks by the founder of the “Clean Our Oceans Project,” Sef Carandang, vice president for community development of the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc., Anna Varona and executive director of MWWP AA Yaptinchay.
There will also be an exhibit, showcasing more than 100 works by 50 established and up-and-coming local artists. The artwork will depict the different shark and ray species in the Philippines. These pieces will be displayed at a fundraising art show.
The proceeds will benefit MWWP in implementing shark conservation activities in the country.
The DLAF series is sponsored by Pacific Cross Philippines, Limtuaco’s Manille de Calamansi Liqueur, Amadeo Coffee Liqueur, Paradise Mango Rum, Very Old Captain Dark Rum, J Studio, Nitto Printing Caravan Black and Groove Nation.
“Drink Like a Fish: For the Love of Sharks” will be held at the J Studio, La Fuerza Compound in Makati City.
