MPIF is marking Ocean Month with a science-led Tubbataha conservation effort
Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF), the corporate social responsibility arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), will conduct the Shore It Up! The Tubbataha Exploration Dive from May 21 to 27, 2026, brings together leading marine scientists, conservationists, and visual storytellers to help explore the wildlife of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.
The expedition aims to generate scientific knowledge and field observations that can help strengthen marine conservation efforts under MPIF’s Gabay Kalikasan program. Located in the heart of the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha is one of the Philippines’ most important marine habitats and a world-renowned reef system that supports marine biodiversity, fisheries, and the long-term sustainability of the surrounding oceans.
This move also comes shortly after renewing MPIF’s relationship with the Tubbataha Protected Area Management Board and Friends of Tubbataha, Inc. Under the agreement, MPIF committed P12 million over four years, or P3 million annually, to support research programs, conservation activities, and community-based efforts for the continued protection of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. The renewal builds on a partnership established in 2022 under the Shore It Up! The Tubbataha program, where MPIF provided P8 million in support from 2022 to 2025.
Generating science-based conservation information
With this trip, Shore It Up! attempts to help assess coral cover, reef fish biomass, key indicator species, biodiversity conditions, and emerging threats that may affect reef ecosystems. Findings from the survey are expected to support long-term marine conservation planning, guide future conservation efforts, and contribute to greater public awareness of the importance of protecting the Philippine marine environment.
The expedition is expected to issue a scientific findings report documenting observations, biodiversity data, reef health assessments, key learnings, and conservation recommendations from the expedition. For MPIF, expeditions are another way to support conservation through research, collaboration, and public awareness.
“Protecting Tubbataha requires consistent support, rigorous science, and close collaboration with people and institutions that know its waters best. With Shore It Up!, we hope to provide meaningful information that can help guide conservation action and encourage more Filipinos to appreciate the marine environment that supports our country,” said Melody M. Del Rosario, President of MPIF.
Experts gather to examine Tubbataha
Shore It Up! The Tubbataha Exploration Dive will be supported by a team of scientists, conservationists, and documentarians, each contributing their own area of expertise to the exploration.
Dr. Wilfredo Roehl Y. Licuanan, one of the country’s leading scientists, will lead the coral health assessment. His work will focus on assessing coral reef condition, living coral cover, coral structure, and signs of coral stress such as bleaching, disease, or physical damage.
Dr. Arnel Andrew “AA” Yaptinchay, a marine biologist and conservation advocate, will lead the assessment of endangered marine species. His role will include documenting marine fish diversity, important marine species, and indicator or endangered species that may indicate overall ecosystem health.
Romeo “Romy” Trono, an expert in marine biodiversity and species protection, will provide information on marine protected area governance and conservation strategies. Her work will help identify best practices and lessons that can inform other marine conservation sites supported by Shore It Up!
Angelique Songco, Protected Area Superintendent of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, will provide site management and conservation context, including details of park management, enforcement, and conservation challenges. He will also support collaboration with the Tubbataha Management office and park management.
Rounding out the team is Bo Mancao, underwater photographer, dive leader, and marine conservation advocate, who will lead visual documentation and conservation storytelling. His work will help capture the beauty, natural value, and conservation value of Tubbataha while documenting the scientific and conservation activities of the expedition.
Improving marine protection through Shore It Up!
The expedition is part of MPIF’s broader environmental advocacy through Shore It Up!, the MVP Group’s flagship coastal and ocean protection program. Now in its 18th year, Shore It Up! continues to support conservation programs that integrate science, public engagement, and cooperation to protect the nation’s marine and coastal environment.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a 97,030 hectare marine protected area within the Coral Triangle and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. The rich marine biodiversity and remote location make continuous monitoring, protection, and cooperation essential to ensure its long-term health.
With Shore It Up! Tubbataha Exploration Dive, MPIF aims to help generate reliable scientific understanding, conservation recommendations, and compelling visual materials that can support future marine protection projects and encourage broader public participation in marine conservation during and beyond Ocean Month.
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