Philippine Wetlands - SCPW Newsletter - 1st Issue Oct-Dec 2020

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PHILIPPINE WETLANDS SCPW Newsletter 4Q 2020

SCPW ACTIVITIES FROM 2018-2020 The SCPW works for the wise use and conservation of Philippine Wetlands.

The Wetland Center Complex at the Las Piñas Parañaque Wetland Park (credits: Aaron Lecciones 2019)

INSIDE THIS EDITION

What is inside this newsletter?

Descriptions of 30+ projects covering 3 years (2018-2020) of work at the SCPW. Messages from the President and Vice-President.

Aaron Julius M. Lecciones Editor

Information on the Board of Trustees and our partners.

Invitation to the 2020 SCPW Christmas Gathering.

Reminder to renew your membership.

Image and Photo Credits throughout the newsletter: Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc.

SCPW, Aaron Lecciones, Carlo Quintos

Unit 208 Grand Emerald Tower, F. Ortigas Ave. corner Garnet St., Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines 1605T/F: +63 2 8637 2409

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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Arch. Celestino B Ulep.

Welcome to the inaugural issue of Philippine Wetlands!

This semi-annual newsletter of the SCPW is meant to communicate our activities to our stakeholders, supports, partners, and the wider community. Inside you will find projects from 2018, the starting date for the current Board of Trustees, up to today.

My journey with the SCPW began during its inception in 1998. In 1999, I was part of the Board of Trustees. I've avidly followed the organisation throughout the decades and have been active in the field. Just like you, my passion for wetlands is both professional and personal. As President of the SCPW, I am able to combine my passion for wetlands with my professional experience in environmental planning. We will continue working with our partners while also expanding our network.

Pres. Celes is presented a certificate for speaking at the SCPW conference: Wetlands for a Sustainable Urban Future (2018).

Please don't forget to renew your membership and we hope to see you in our year-end online Christmas Gathering.

I hope you enjoy reading this newsletter!

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Amy M. Lecciones

Wetlands, Our Lifeline.

The past three years have been very busy for the SCPW. We've strengthened our current partnerships - DENR, CLEAR, RRC-EA, EAAFP, WLI and many others; and we've forged new ones - British Embassy, National Geographic, Holcim Philippines, Newton Prize, ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Philippine Water Partnership, among others.

With the help of Senator Cynthia A. Villar and support from DENR-NCR, the Wetland Centre at the Las PiĂąas ParaĂąaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) which was designed by our very own SCPW Design Team is almost complete. We continue to work with all our partners and stakeholders in conserving wetlands around the country. Our special attention goes to the Candaba Wetlands which have no legislative protection and are at highest risk to be lost.

On a good note, I would like to announce that the SCPW will be hosting the 8th Wetland Link International - Asia Conference here in the Philippines in November 2021.

Wetland Link International (WLI) is a global network of wetland centers founded in 1991

by Wildfowl and Wetland Trust (WWT) and partners. It is endorsed by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands as a key mechanism to support wetland centers in delivering CEPA activities at wetland sites. We hope all our membership can help us with this big gathering of wetland friends from all over Asia!

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Executive Director Amy presents to students at the Active, Clean & Bountiful Rivers event.

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES As of 2018

Celestino B. Ulep

Amy M. Lecciones

President

Vice-President

Registered Architect

Ramsar Convention NGO CEPA

Project Development and

Focal Point for the Philippines

Resource Mobilization Committee

Project Development and Resource Mobilization

Candido A. Cabrido, Jr.

Committee Communication and Networking

Board Member Committee Registered Environmental Planner Project Development and Resource Mobilization Committee Scientific Advisory Committee

Simplicia A. Pasicolan Board Member

Ma. Cheryl F. Prudente Board Member Communication and Networking

Scientific Advisory Committee Project Development and Resource Mobilization Committee

Committee

Ma. Catriona M. Devanadera

Aaron Julius M. Lecciones

Board Member

Board Member

Registered Metallurgical Engineer

Registered Architect

Project Development and Resource

Membership Committee

Mobilization Committee

Project Development and

Communications and Networking

Resource Mobilization Committee

Committee

Communications and Networking Committee

SCPW TEAM Zenaida M. Ugat Project Officer, SCPW Wetland CEPA Project Membership & Communications and Networking Comm.

wetlands are considered the most

Carlo H. Quintos Project Officer, Active, Clean and Bountiful Rivers Project: Towards Ending Plastic Pollution in Rivers Project Membership & Communications and Networking Comm.

Darryshel M. Estorba

biologically diverse ecosystems globally.

Project Officer: Active, Clean and Bountiful Rivers US National Wildlife Refuge

Project: The Wetlands BioBlitz Program Membership & Communications and Networking Comm.

Shirley M. Cuevas Project Support: ACB Rivers Project

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including capacity building

Forum on Wetlands and Flood Management

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2018

For 2018, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

The Forum on Wetlands and Flood Management was held on 14 December 2018 at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria to set the stage for a more indepth understanding and discussions on wetlands and flood management. The Forum, which was an initiative under the Water, Climate and Development Program of the Global Water Partnership, was

Objective 1: To engage in wetland conservation activities.

Developed an eco-tourism package for the Paligui Wetlands as an additional

organized by the SCPW in partnership with the Philippine Water

source of livelihood for the Macagatal

Partnership.

Irrigators Association. This was tested during the World Wetlands Day 2019 activity where 35 media practitioners experienced the eco-tour.

Characterized and assessed Paligui Wetlands and prepared a Management Plan.

Implemented a citizen-science activity (The Wetlands BioBlitz) in the three pilot rivers (Pangil, Lumban and Mabitac) involving about 200 students, teachers,

CLEAR Youth Ecological Camp – Victoria, Laguna The 3-day camp held on 13-15 November 2018 at Camp Allen Training and Development Center was participated by 25 high school students from eight schools in Victoria, Laguna. The eco-camp is a regular activity of CLEAR (Conservation of Laguna de Bay's Environment and Resources), a

experts, LGU staff and volunteers. The participants to the Wetlands BioBlitz will upload new information on the website as a means of monitoring the pilot rivers.

Twenty-five high school students and three teachers from 8 high schools in Victoria, Laguna are implementing

tripartite partnership of SCPW, Laguna Lake Development Authority and

wetland conservation activities as an

Unilever Philippines.

output of the Eco-Camp. This expands the number of high schools to 118 in 22

A Journey with Migratory Birds: A Learning Event for the Youth The activity was conducted on 05 October 2018 and provided an opportunity for the youth to learn about the migratory birds and how they can help in protecting them. About 100 participants from 15 high schools and Colleges/Universities in the Manila Bay Area participated in the activity which consisted of lectures in the morning at the Philippine International Convention Center. Topics covering the journey of these birds from Alaska all the way to Australia and New Zealand were discussed by Resource Persons from Alaska, Myanmar, Australia and Philippines. It was followed by a Wetland Walk at the Las Piñas Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area (LPPCHEA) where they observed the birds in their natural habitat. The field exposure was also designed as an experiential learning for the students on the importance of LPPCHEA. This activity was supported by National Geographic - Asia.

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municipalities in Laguna de Bay.

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CEPA ACTIVITIES

including capacity building

For 2018, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

Objective 2: To provide a forum and technical assistance on wetland-related issues

Wetlands for a Sustainable Urban Future This Organised Session by the SCPW at the International Conference on

An overview of current practices and

Human Settlements Planning Development presents projects and research

nature-based solutions on Wetlands and

conducted in urban wetlands pioneering action and inputs to policy to

Flood Management in the Philippines was generated during the Forum held in December 2019.

Developed a Tourism Development

help conserve urban wetlands through sustainable and wise use.

Six

projects implemented with various partners were discussed with topics on wetland offsetting, integration of wetlands into tourism planning,

Master Plan for Bacnotan, La Union

wetlands as natural treatment systems, engaging citizen science as a

which has been presented and is set for

CEPA tool, designing urban waterfronts as wetland learning centres, and

approval by the Sangguaniang Bayan in

mapping of vulnerable wetlands.

August 2019.

Upon the request of BMB, the SCPW conducted an orientation on the RAWES (Rapid Assessment of Wetland Ecosystem Services) to LLDA on 31 July 2018. LLDA used the approach in assessing lakeshore areas in Laguna de Bay. Upon the request of San Beda Environmental Law Society, the SCPW talked about Philippine Wetlands: Status, Challenges and Solutions at the Wetlands Forum held on 08 March 2018.

Active, Clean and Bountiful Rivers : The Wetlands BioBlitz The Active, Clean and Bountiful Rivers is one of the flagship programs of SCPW. The launching of the program on 16 March 2018 at Panguil River also served as a dry-run for the Wetlands Bioblitz activities that will be implemented in three major rivers in Laguna de Bay. In line with the theme for World Water Day 2018 celebration which is “Nature for Water” the activity underscores the relationship between nature and water, and nature-based solutions for water-related issues.

World Wetlands Day Celebration World Wetlands Day was celebrated by the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. (SCPW) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – Biodiversity Management Bureau by conducting Educational Outreach Activities or Learning Events with the theme “Wetlands for a Sustainable Urban Future – Making Cities Liveable”.

Held simultaneously on 02 February 2018 at Barangay Sta.

Lucia and Barangay San Bartolome in Quezon City, the activities were participated by local organizations, community leaders and officials.

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accomplishments

including capacity building For 2018, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

Objective 3: Complementing wetland management activities through research, training and CEPA Organized a bird-watching group in Candaba Wetlands that is registered at the DOLE. Conducted training on bird-watching guides and rice production techniques for farmers of Candaba Wetlands.

Developed methods and approaches for The Wetlands BioBlitz that was implemented in three rivers in Laguna de Bay region namely Pangil, Pagsanjan-

The SCPW holds a Wetland Walk at the LPPWP for World Wetlands Day 2018,

Lumban and Mabitac Rivers.

Expanded the CEPA program of the SCPW through a Learning Event on migratory birds and wetlands in

Television interview about Wetlands (GMA’s Amazing Earth) On October 2018, the SCPW was invited by Amazing Earth, an informative

partnership with the National Geographic Society involving experts from five countries and 97 high school and college students and teachers from 13 high schools and two universities.

television program broadcasted by GMA Network, which aims to showcase the beauty of our planet. Shot at Candaba Wetlands in

Generated maps of wetland priorities for Ecosystem-Based Disaster Risk

Pampanga, the episode focused on the importance of wetlands and its

Reduction (Eco-DRR) and Climate

relation on flooding. Mr. Jose Carlo Quintos was interviewed by the

Change Adaptation (EbA) in the

program host, Mr. Ding Dong Dantes. The episode aired on October 28, 2018.

Philippines which became the basis for prioritizing wetlands for rehabilitation in the Inland Wetlands Conservation Program of the BMB. Produced eight brochures on the Capability of Inland Wetlands in Reducing Disaster Risk in the Philippines and are currently available online in the SCPW website.

Celebrated World Wetlands Day 2018 through a Nature Walk, Bird Watching and Picnic of SCPW members and friendso Radio Guesting “Äng Tinig Klima” for World Wetlands Day 2018 aired with (Radio Veritas; February 24, 2018); Educational Outreach Activities at Barangays San Bartolome and Santa Lucia, Quezon TV interview of Jose Carlo Quintos on Candaba Wetlands featured in “Amazing Earth” aired on 28 October 2019) Attended meetings, seminars, consultations on wetland-related issues.

Attendance to Waterlinks Forum 2018

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accomplishments For 2018, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

Objective 4: To facilitate linkage and networking among wetland advocates locally and abroad Worked with new partners in wetlandrelated activities

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PROVIDING TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ON WETLANDRELATED ISSUES Tourism Development Master Plan for Bacnotan The municipality of Bacnotan is a coastal town in the province of La

Philippine Water Partnership East-Asian Australasian Flyway

Union. In order to boost the municipality’s tourism as an engine of

Partnership

socioeconomic growth, La Farge - Holcim Philippines engaged the Society

National Geographic Society Asia

for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. in the preparation of the

Agricultural Training Institute –

Tourism Development Master Plan for the municipality with close

Department of Agriculture

cooperation from the LGU. The overall project objective is to assist the

Raptor Watch Philippines Lafarge-Holcim Philippines Municipality of Bacnotan, La Union Municipality of Victoria, Laguna

Municipality of Bacnotan in preparing its tourism plan that ensures dynamic economic activities within the context of sustainable development of the people.

University of Surrey, UK

Attendance to Transitions in Urban Waterfronts working group at the APRU Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference 2018 and the National Geographic Explorer Encounters.

Agricultural Wetlands as a Showcase for Wetland Conservation The project “Agricultural Wetlands as a Showcase for Wetlands

Candaba Wetlands have been experiencing both natural and anthropogenic threats.

Conservation,” which is supported by the Ramsar Regional Center- East Asia, is an attempt to conserve a portion of the Candaba Wetlands which has been experiencing both natural and anthropogenic threats. The property is adjacent to the locally-declared Bird Sanctuary and also harbors a host of various migratory birds.

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participation in meetings & training courses Sustainable Tourism and Forest Management in the Asia-Pacific Region

EAAFP-CEPA Workshop

UNITAR CIFAL – Jeju hosted a

East Asian-Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP) - Communication,

Tourism and Forest Management in the

Education, Participation and Awareness (CEPA) Workshop brought together a group of experienced CEPA practitioners from across the

training/workshop entitled “Sustainable

Asia-Pacific Region” on 20-23 March 2018 at Ramada Seogwipo Hotel, Seogwipo City, Republic of Korea. The

flyway to inspire CEPA actions for the benefit of migratory birds and the

workshop provided a venue for

flyway sites. The overall aim of the workshop is to inspire CEPA action

participants to understand the

across the flyway for the benefit of migratory birds and the flyway sites.

relationship between sustainable forest management and tourism through various lectures and group activities.

Best practices on forest management and tourism were also presented, offering opportunities to explore welldesigned tourism development cases around the world. Mr Carlo Quintos represented the SCPW.

Water Education Conservation Award for Unilever Philippines

Youth Forum on Water and Environment: A Side Event to the International River Summit (Mandaue, Cebu)

During the World Water Day Awards Ceremonies on 22 March 2018 at the

As a side event to the 4th International River

Novotel Manila, the Unilever Philippines was given the Water Education

Summit, a Youth Forum on Water and

Conservation Award in recognition for its long-time support to the CEPA (Communication, Education, Participation and Awareness) initiatives of the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc.

Environment was conducted on November 22, 2018. The event was organized by the SCPW, in partnership with the Philippine Water Partnership (PWP), National Water Resources Board (NWRB), Central Cebu River Basin Management Council (CCRBMC), Maynilad Water Services Inc., and PhilCapNet/Maynilad Water Academy.

Attended by 230 high school students from Talamban National High School, the forum was composed of learning sessions and group activities about the interrelationship of wetlands and water and its conservation.

International Day for Biodiversity 2018 The SCPW was present during the celebration of the International Day for Biodiversity on May 22, 2018 at the National Museum of Natural History, Manila.

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Transitions in Urban Waterfronts working group at the APRU Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference 2018

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2019

For 2019, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

As part of the global community advocating for the wise use of wetlands, the SCPW joined the Biodiversity Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (BMB-DENR) in celebrating this year’s World Wetlands Day. With the theme “Wetland and Climate Change”, a Media Wetland Exposure activity was conducted on 1-2

Objective 1: To engage in wetland conservation activities.

CLEAR Ecological Camp for Jalajala, Rizal

February 2019 in Candaba, Pampanga. The event was participated by 24

Active, Clean and Bountiful Rivers:

individuals coming from local and national media. The activity was

Towards Ending Plastic Pollution in

designed to increase the awareness and appreciation of some media

Rivers

practitioners on the importance of wetlands particularly as it relates to

Coastal Clean-Up with Sen. Cynthia A. Villar at the LPPCHEA

climate change.

Partnered with the Tayabas City Government and the DENR-BMB to conduct the Tayabas 2nd River Summit

Active, Clean and Bountiful Rivers: The Wetlands BioBlitz The Wetlands BioBlitz for Lumban-Pagsanjan River was conducted on 6-8 February 2019 at Lumban National High School. Two teachers and 52 students from Lumban National High School, and nine local government representatives from the municipality of Lumban participated in the event, with the guidance of SCPW team and 14 scientists/experts from partner government offices.

Round Table Discussion on The Philippines Water Sector: Gaps and Opportunities In celebration of this year’s World Water Day, the RTD was held on 20 March 2019 at Joy Nostalg Hotel Manila, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. This multi-stakeholder dialogue aimed to enhance relationships among key Philippine oversight agencies on water, private sector, civil society organizations, academe, development partners, and water-end users by sharing what each one is currently doing and in the process identify areas of opportunities for fruitful collaboration. The event was organized by the Trade and Investment of the British Embassy Manila and the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc., in cooperation with the Philippine Water Partnership.

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CEPA ACTIVITIES

including capacity building

For 2019, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

Objective 2: To provide a forum and technical assistance on wetland-related issues

The World Wetlands Day 2019 Climate Storytelling Project (Ramsar RC-EA Funded) Aimed to engage young minds in the

protection and conservation of

Tourism Development Master Plan for

wetlands through short lectures,

Bacnotan (Lafarge-Holcim)

games, storytelling activity and a

wetland walk around the park. Production a children’s storybook

Terrestrial Ecology Survey of SR Lands Development Project in Zamboanga City

importance of wetlands featuring the story of

(Dr. Jihan Hashim-Adil)

.

on the

"Islaw, Ang Pulis Bakawan"

Flood Regulation Strategy Using Combination Nature-Based Solutions in Barangay Yapak (Wetland #1), Boracay Island (Manila Ocean Park) Mapping Wetland Priorities for Ecosystem-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco-DRR) and Climate Change Adaptation (EbA) in the Philippines Handbook: A Guide to Conducting a Wetlands BioBlitz Activity

Organized a Learning Visit of San Beda College students to the LPPCHEA On 13 April 2019, the SCPW organized a learning visit by various organizations from San Beda College – Alabang (San Beda College Alabang - School of Law, Environmental Law Society, and the Bedan Biodiversity Conservation Society) to the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park. The participants were given lectures on wetlands and migratory birds, and experienced a walking tour and bird watching activity. They also conducted a coastal clean-up activity at the Freedom Island.

In environmental education, we often use stories to connect our audiences to the animals and messages we are presenting.

Rachael Rost, Grosvenor Teacher Fellow, National Geographic Education

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Click It, Sketch It: An Adventure with Migratory Birds The storytelling session was about the his kite and two

and a mangrove tree, where mangroves,

journey of Elias and

of nature’s great allies: a migratory

bird

children learned about

migratory birds, and plastic pollution.

It was

culminated with an art session – coloring of birds sketched, a way to introduce at LPPCHEA.

to the kids to the migratory bird species

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accomplishments

CEPA ACTIVITIES

including capacity building For 2019, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

Objective 3: Complementing wetland management activities through research, training and CEPA 2019 World Wetlands Day celebration Active, Clean and Bountiful Rivers: The Wetlands BioBlitz at Lumban-Pagsanjan River and Mabitac River Round Table Discussion on The Philippines Water Sector: Gaps and Opportunities (funded by the British Embassy) The World Wetlands Day 2019 Climate Storytelling Project (funded by Ramsar

Executive Director Amy at the 2019 CLEAR Ecological Camp at Jalajala, Rizal

Regional Center-East Asia) Organized a Learning Visit of San Beda College students to the LPPCHEA

2019 CLEAR Ecological Camp for Jalajala, Rizal

Production of children's books: Elias

Twenty-two students from three high schools of Jalajala participated in

Bakawan.

the camp.

Paper presentation at 15th International

It was

conducted in cooperation with the Local Government

of Jalajala and Jalajala District Office of

the Department of Education.

Action Plan was shared with the LGU and partnership for the

meets the kite-eater and Islaw, ang Pulis

Living Lakes Network Conference on Lakes and Wetlands

establishment of the Wetland Center with the MFI is being explored.

15th International Living Lakes Network Conference on Lakes and Wetlands SCPW was represented by its Executive Director at the 15th Living Lakes Conference on Lakes and Other Wetlands at Valencia, Spain on 07-09 May 2019.

Tayabas 2nd River Summit Organized by the Local Government of Tayabas City, BMB-DENR and the SCPW. This year’s theme was “Ilog Tayabas, Pangalagaan, Bahagi Ito ng Ating Likasyaman Kultura at Kasaysayan”

The SCPW joined other network members at the Conference

Exhibit with a poster showcasing projects implemented by SCPW including the ACB Rivers (Active, Clean, and Bountiful Rivers) - The Wetlands BioBlitz.

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accomplishments For 2019, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

Objective 4: To facilitate linkage and networking among wetland advocates locally and abroad Worked with new partners in wetlandrelated activities

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PROVIDING TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ON WETLANDRELATED ISSUES Tourism Development Master Plan for Bacnotan The draft Tourism Development Master Plan was presented by Arch. Aaron

Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation Manila Ocean Park

Lecciones to the municipal officials and department heads of Bacnotan on 13 June 2019.

Participated in the following meetings, workshops, and other events: Groundbreaking for the Wetland Centre Strata at the Las Piñas - Parañaque Wetland Park Participated in the 15th Living Lakes Conference in Valencia, Spain in 04 – 10 May 2019 Attendance to the World Water Day Philippines Celebration Participated in the Program Development Workshop on Sustainable Water Resource Management for Food Security in Southeast Asia Briefing on the Green Climate Fund at Land Bank of the Philippines

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Terrestrial Ecology Survey of SR Lands Development Project in Zamboanga City The project is part of an Environmental Impact Assessment activity of SR Lands Development Project in Pasabolong, Mercedes, and Boalan, Zamboanga City. The SCPW team conducted the first fieldwork in Zamboanga City on 28-30 June 2019.

Flood Regulation Strategy Using Combination Nature-Based Solutions in Barangay Yapak (Wetland #1), Boracay Island (Manila Ocean Park) Phase 1 consists of Hydrological Study of the said wetland while Phase 2 is on the Preparation of Design Development Plans. The results of the study will provide SSBPI science-based information in designing interventions that will help alleviate flooding in the area. The SCPW team did an ocular visit and fieldwork at Yapak wetland (Wetland #1), Boracay Island on 20-24 February 2019

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FACILITATING LINKAGES

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Visit to EAAFP Office Ms. Amy M. Lecciones, visited the office of the East Asian - Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP) in Incheon, South Korea to discuss their upcoming joint project titled "Click It, Sketch It" in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day on 12-13 October 2019.

Groundbreaking for the Wetland Centre Strata at the Las Piñas - Parañaque Wetland Park On 8 February 2019, saw the groundbreaking for the Wetland Centre Strata, the companion structure to the existing Wetland Centre Wave. The Wetland Centre Strata is the main structure at the Las Piñas – Paranaque Wetland Park (LPPCHEA).Both structures are donations of Senator Cynthia A. Villar, a lasting legacy for the environment and a visible reminder of our strong commitment to conserving the last frontier of Manila Bay.

Society of Wetland Scientists – Asia Chapter and Korean Wetland Society Joint Meeting Executive Director Amy Lecciones attended the Society of Wetland

Attendance to the World Water Day Philippines Celebration Participated in the Program Development Workshop on Sustainable Water Resource Management for Food Security in Southeast Asia At the World Water Day Philippines celebration on March 22, 2019 at Novotel, 21 water champions were awarded Huwarang Lingkod-Tubig Award. Water Awards was

Scientists – Asia Chapter and Korean Wetland Society Joint Meeting held

spearheaded by Maynilad Water Services,

at Suncheon City, Republic of Korea las 19-22 August 2019. She presented

Inc., National Water Resources Board; and

the SCPW project Documenting Capabilities of Inland Wetlands

the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

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accomplishments For 2019, the SCPW has accomplished the

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following:

Objective 4: To facilitate linkage and networking among wetland advocates locally and abroad continued...

7th Wetlands Link International Asia Conference The conference was aimed to share information among managers and relevant stakeholders, members through discussion operation and

wetland center

facilitate interaction among

on specific themes on wetland center

management, and explore opportunities for future

Participated in the following meetings,

cooperation among the members. SCPW was represented by

workshops, and other events:

Lecciones, Dr. Ma. Catriona Devanadera, Mr.

SCPW team joins the 7th Wetlands Link International Asia Conference Ms Darryshel Estorba participates in the Workshop on Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development

Quintos, Ms. Darry Shel Estorba and Arch.

Lecciones presented the “CEPA

Ms. Amy

Jose Carlo

Aaron Lecciones. Ms.

Highlights and

Milestones” at the

Conference. During the General Meeting, SCPW/Philippines was chosen to host the next WLI-Asia Conference in November 2021.

2nd Research and Development Congress on East Asian- Australasian Flyway for Wetlands and Migratory Waterbirds in the Course of Climate Change

“An individual can make a change but a team can make a revolution.”

The SCPW Team composed of (R-L) Aaron Lecciones, Carlo Quintos, Amy Lecciones, Darryshel Estorba, and Amy Lecciones with a guide during a field trip at the conference.

Amit Kalantri, Wealth of Words

Workshop on Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development The SCPW, represented by Ms. Darry Shel the Workshop on

Sustainable. She presented the project

Wetlands as a Showcase for

participants

state of agriculture and

sector in their respective cities by utilizing

materials as well as networks

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to learn from each city’s case studies and

establish action plan to improve the current

rural development

“Agricultural

Wetlands Conservation”. The workshop

aimed to motivate participants to

Estorba, who participated in

workshop

established. The event was attended by 19

from 10 countries in Asia.

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2nd Research and Development Congress on East Asian-Australasian Flyway for Wetlands and Migratory Water birds in the Course of Climate Change Organized by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) of the Department

of Environment and Natural Resources and was held

at L'Fisher Hotel in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental on 7-11 October 2019.

Two paper presentations from

SCPW: “Rapid Wetland Characterization

to Support Management Planning” (presented and “Rapid Assessment of Wetland

by Ms. Amy Lecciones)

Wetland Ecosystem Services (RAWES) in

Offsetting for Urban Developments: An Example

from

Attendance to the World Water Day Philippines Celebration Participated in the Program Development Workshop on Sustainable Water Resource Management for Food Security in Southeast Asia At the World Water Day Philippines celebration on March 22, 2019 at Novotel, 21 water champions were awarded Huwarang

Valenzuela City, Philippines” (presented by Two other speakers from ERDB presented BioBlitz during the

Speed Talk Session.

Arch. Aaron Lecciones).

aspects of the Wetlands

Lingkod-Tubig Award. Water Awards was spearheaded by Maynilad Water Services, Inc., National Water Resources Board; and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

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2020

For 2020, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

As part of the global community advocating for the wise use of wetlands, the SCPW joined the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Pampanga State Agricultural University in celebrating this year’s World Wetlands Day. With the theme “Wetland and Biodiversity”, a learning event "Wetlands and Agricultural Biodiversity" was conducted.

Objective 1: To engage in wetland conservation activities.

Due to the COVID19 Pandemic on-theground conservation activities have

Special guests for the event were Senator Cynthia A. Villar, Dr. Honorio

been suspended. The SCPW has

M. Soriano, Jr., Dr. Theresa Mundita S. Lim, and ARD Arthur Salazar Hon.

conducted online activities related to

Virgilio Manalili.

conservation instead.

Objective 2: To provide a forum and technical assistance on wetland-related issues Stocktaking Study of Existing Policies, Plans and Programs in the South-east Area of Manila Bay Circular Nutrient Economy for Inclusive Sustainable Cities of the Future WaterEnergy-Nutrient Nexus in the Cities of the Future

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CEPA ACTIVITIES

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For 2020, the SCPW has accomplished the following:

Objective 3: Complementing wetland management activities through research, training and CEPA 2020 World Wetlands Day celebration

Click It, Sketch It: An Adventure with Migratory Birds 2020 Edition ”Featuring A Storytelling Session for Children World Migratory Bird Day 2020 aims to raise awareness on the

“Click It, Sketch It: An Adventure with Migratory Birds 2020 Edition ”Featuring

importance of ecological connectivity for migratory birds and

A Storytelling Session for Children

complement the efforts of Convention on Migratory Species to promote

Webinar “Click It, Sketch It: An

ecological connectivity and functionality, international cooperation and

Adventure with Migratory Birds 2020

the conservation of migratory species within the post-2020 global

Edition ”Featuring A Storytelling Session for Children for WMBD 2020.

Celebrated Earth Day 2020 Participated in Zero Waste Month

biodiversity framework.In line with this year’s theme for World Migratory Bird Day (Birds Connect Our World) and the EAAFP theme for 2019-2020 (Flyways – Connecting People and Migratory Waterbirds), the SCPW will again conduct the “Click It, Sketch It” activity. The storytelling activity is

Objective 4: To facilitate linkage and networking among wetland advocates locally and abroad Worked with new partners in wetlandrelated activities

designed for grade schoolers that will revolve around the importance of migratory birds, the threats to their very existence and instill in their young minds that people can do something to help protect wildlife and their habitats.

Due to the current health risk, the session will be conducted via

online platform.

ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity Pampanga State Agricultural University

Participated in the following meetings, workshops, and other events: Our collective vision for Manila Bay: From cleaning to healing across ecosystems.

Sustainable Use of Peatlands and Haze Mitigation in ASEAN Component 1: State Actors Meeting (DENR) Sustainable Use of Peatlands and Haze Mitigation in ASEAN Component 2: NonState Actors Meeting (Indonesia) Life Project 4 Youth Entrepreneurs Day

Webinar “Click It, Sketch It: An Adventure with Migratory Birds 2020 Edition ”Featuring A Storytelling Session for Children for WMBD 2020 The SCPW had been working with farmers in a 135-hectare rice farm in Candaba, Pampanga which is part of the approximately 32,000 hectares of wetlands straddling three provinces (Bulacan, Pampanga and Nueva Ecija).

The Candaba Wetlands is an important area for agricultural and

fisheries production, water irrigation, and natural flood retention. It is a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA #31) and an Important Bird Area (PH007) within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). Candaba Swamp continues to be drained or converted into wet agriculture, severely limiting habitat for waterfowls. In celebration of World Migratory Bird Day this year and taking note of the theme “Birds Connect Our World”, the SCPW will conduct a webinar to highlight how farming communities and migratory birds can be in harmony with each other.

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FACILITATING LINKAGES

and networking among wetland advocates locally and abroad

The SCPW conducted a field visit at the LPPWP on February 15 upon request by Dr. Pedcris Orencio of the Ateneo Environmental Management course.

Sustainable Use of Peatlands and Haze Mitigation in ASEAN Component 1: State Actors Meeting (DENR) Sustainable Use of Peatlands and Haze Mitigation in ASEAN Component 2: NonState Actors Meeting (Indonesia) Executive Director Amy Lecciones represented the SCPW in the ongoing Sustainable Use of Peatlands and Haze Mitigation in ASEAN talks held this year at the Philippines and Indonesia.

PROVIDING TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ON WETLANDRELATED ISSUES Circular Nutrient Economy for Inclusive Sustainable Cities of the Future Water-Energy-Nutrient Nexus in the Cities of the Future

Attendance to the Life Project 4 Youth Entrepreneurs Day

The SCPW has been selected as a partner for the Newton Prize winning

The SCPW participated in Life Project 4

project NexCities which aims to convert wastewater into nutrient-rich

Youth's Entrepreneurs Day on January 19,

fertiliser. The project has the potential to improve local economies by creating jobs, enhancing agricultural practises, increasing food security

2020 at the British School Manila. This is the 11th Edition of the Entrepreneurs Day and it celebrates the Youth from LP4Y Manila, the

and improving sanitation and the provision of clean water, among others.

Stars Clubs and you, our partners.

The project proponents are the University of Surrey and De La Salle University. Other partners include De La Salle Araneta and the University

During the event Executive Director Amy

of Nottingham.

Lecciones and Special Projects Officer Aaron Lecciones were able to meet with Adrien Marty, the current Leader of the Green Village Calauan.

Attendance to Our collective vision for Manila Bay: From cleaning to healing across ecosystems.

The SCPW attended the webinar organised by the DOST-NRCP, UPLB-SESAM, GSP. on September 18, 2020.

Attendance to Innovations in NatureBased Systems for Coastal Protection.

Web Panel Series from Coasts and People Research Coordination Network.

Aaron Lecciones represented the SCPW

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during this webinar organised by the University of Maryland.

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AT A GLANCE

SCPW Engagements in 2018-2020 Citizen Science as a Tool for Wetland Conservation Ecosystem Restoration Wetlands and Resilience Designing for Wetland-Centered Sustainable Tourism Communication, Education, Participation and Awareness (CEPA) Capacity Building and other Stakeholder Engagements Regular Activities Networking, Funding and Strategic Partners

.

Accomplishment in numbers

SCPW celebrates 22 years anniversary 123 High Schools reached by the Youth Ecological Camps 16 LGUs participating in the Plastic Recovery Project 50 farmers trained on sustainable agriculture and birding guides 11 tons of flexible plastic collected in 2019 that had

been

converted to school chairs Capacity Building and other

Famers with their certificates at the Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Rice Production Training for Farmers of Candaba Project.

Stakeholder Engagements 135 hectares of agricultural characterized (management plan) 3 major rivers draining to Laguna de Bay characterized

.

Numbers reached by CEPA activities 21 media practitioners and bloggers 1788 individuals attending SCPW events (432 Youth) 50 countries became aware of SCPW activities

Conservation means the wise use of earth and its resources for the lasting good of men.

Gifford Pinchot

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INVITATION TO THE SCPW CHRISTMAS GATHERING

You are cordially invited to the SCPW CHRISTMAS GATHERING to be held online via ZOOM Conference Call.

Please await further details to be announced on the SCPW website regarding this online get-together for Christmas!

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RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP Being a member of the SCPW helps make a difference for wetlands allover the country!

To be qualified to vote during the General Assembly you must be an active member of the SCPW.

Payment of your annual membership dues

ensures that you are tagged as an active member of the SCPW in our membership roll.

How to renew your membership You may pay ONLINE. Visit our membership page https://www.wetlands.ph/membership-and-donations/ Choose your membership type then click on

Add to Cart

You may now pay using PayPal (credit card, debit card, Philippine bank savings account)

You may pay by bank deposit.

Method 01 Use your bank's mobile or web app and transfer the amount of PhP500.00 for an annual payment to the SCPW Bank Account.

Method 02 Pay in person at any Union Bank branch and deposit the amount of PhP500.00 for an annual payment to the SCPW Bank Account.

SCPW Bank Account Union Bank Tektite Branch Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. Current Account Number 006030012770

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