News

Sarihay in Focus: "An Alarming Paradox" by Marie Antonette Pamaran

Posted on September 6, 2016

(Third in a thirteen-part series on the 2^nd Sarihay Media Awards winners)

Maria Antonette Pamaran writes a thoughtful commentary on the alarming state of the Philippines’ seas and fisheries, in a piece that won Best Investigative Report in the 2^nd Sarihay Media Awards.

Pamaran points out the alarming effects of climate change, unregulated and uncontrolled destructive fishing practices and human waste on Philippine seas, and how the degradation of our coral reef ecosystems and continue to result in reduced overall fish catch.

“Fish is still a staple in the Filipino diet, but seafood prices have already started to become prohibitive. In the future, only farmed fish will be available, as the open seas can no longer offer a sustainable bounty. By 2040, the World Wildlife Fund predicts that fresh seafood will only be available to wealthy Filipinos if the system remains unchecked. The rest of the populace will encounter this type of dish in processed and barely recognizable form. To counteract this, experts say that marine habitats have to be protected from pollution and destruction. Chefs and consumers can do their part by choosing what to serve and eat. The first and most important step is to patronize local and sustainable seafood. Action should be done, experts say, so future generations of Filipinos will still be able to enjoy the natural riches of the Philippine waters,” she reports.

Published in Hinge Inquirer Publications last May, 2015, the piece bagged the Best Investigative Report award in the 2^nd Sarihay Media Awards last August 26, 2016.
 

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The Sarihay Media Awards recognizes the role of the media in promoting awareness and deeper understanding of environmental and sustainable development issues among policymakers, decision makers, and the public. The campaign honors media practitioners who delivered outstanding and responsible reportage of environmental news in the past year. The term "Sarihay" comes from the Filipino phrase, "Samu't Saring Buhay", which aptly describes the “diversity of life,” or biodiversity.

The 3rd Sarihay Media Awards will be open for submissions in early 2017.