proposed eco-tourism plan- baguan- oct2007

7/29/2019 Proposed Eco-Tourism Plan- Baguan- Oct2007

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Don E. Baker Jr.

MMaarriinnee RReessoouurrcceess && AAqquuaaccuullttuurree CCoonnssuullttaanntt

Email: [email protected], [email protected]

BOHOL, PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 2007
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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BAGUAN ISLAND ECO-TOURISM DEVELOP PLAN

CONTENTS

PREFACE 4

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .. 72.0 REGIONAL BACKGROUND TIHPA & SIMCA .. 163.0 BAGUAN ISLAND Protection by Ecotourism Presence 234.0 BEDP PROJECT SCOPE Major Features & Budgeting. 25

4.1 Module Funding - Budget Scenario .. 254.2 Time for Implementation & Startup 274.3 Business Feature 284.4 Infrastructure Feature 28

5.0 PROJECT SCOPE STRATEGY EMPLOYED . 29

5.1 BEDP Tourism Development Advantages & Disadvantages 295.2 Island Logistics.. 305.3 Marketing . 305.4 The Funding . 305.5 The Risk . 315.6 Support Staff & Facilities 31

6.0 PROJECT SCOPE MAJOR SUPPORT ACTIVITIES . 36

6.1 Activity One: Marine Invertebrate Hatchery System 36

6.2 Activity Two: Hard Coral Nursery & Reef Restoration 376.3 Activity Three: Reef Monitoring & Survey Programs 386.4 Activity Four: Eco-Dive & Eco-Friendly Tourism 39

7.0 MANAGEMENT PLAN PROPOSED 40

7.1 Management Plan Policies for BEDP . 407.2 ACMR: Assess Cleanup Monitor Restore 40

8.0 MONITORING THE MANAGEMENT PLAN 41

8.1 Administration Monitoring . 418.2 Biological Resource Monitoring. 42

9.0 STRATEGIES EMPLOYED FOR ECO-MANAGEMENT 44

10.0 ECO-MANAGEMENT ISSUES FOR REGULATION 45

11.0 REFERENCES for Further Information .. 57

APPENDIX SECTIONS

Appendix A Don E. Baker, Jr CV & Supporting Documents


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Appendix B Turtle Islands Information

Appendix C Pertinent Philippine Gov. Acts..

APPENDIX SECTIONS IN SEPARATE DOCUMENT:

Appendix D Mariculture Potentials for Baguan Island .

Appendix E Example Mariculture Giant Clams .

Appendix F Hydroponics Waste Water Treatment Design ..

Appendix G Eco-Tourism Pages .

Appendix H Example Resort Designs SIMCA .

Appendix I Relevant Coral Reef / Tourism Pages

PPRREEFFAACCEE

REITERATING the importance of tourism as a significant industry in the promotion of economic

benefits and social unity, which among others, provides employment opportunities thereby alleviatingpoverty, improving the quality of lives among nationals of the ASEAN Member Countries and promotingfriendship, networking and widening of the perspectives among nations;


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ASSIST new members towards the integrated ASEAN tourism through provision of technicalassistance, among others, in the areas of capacity building, human resources development, promotionof investment and protection of environment and cultural heritage.

ADVANCE integration of tourism in accordance with the ASEAN Concord II by 2010 throughdevelopment of ASEAN Tourism Vision and a roadmap to achieve the target of integration;

VIENTIANE DECLARATION ON ENHANCING ASEAN TOURISM COOPERATIONBY THE ASEAN TOURISM MINISTERS/ February 3, 2004

Between 30 to 40 % of the Philippine population - or perhaps some 35 million people live on the coastlines of this archipelago island region. The people of the TurtleIslands live 100 % on their island coasts and depend primarily on marine resourceextraction and harvesting.

The recent WWF Publication Turt le Islands: Resources and Livel ihood s und er

Threat A Case Study o n the Phi l ipp ines; 2005, (Appendix B) bluntly pointed outthat marine resources in the Philippine Turtle Island region are dwindling. Extractionfrom foreign fishermen is also affecting those same resources. Add global warminginduced primarily by the First World nations, the future well being of the Turtle Islandlocal communities is bleak, whereas, a future evacuation of the same islands is a realand present scenario once there is not enough food to support the communities,intercommunity conflict escalates and piracy soars as acts of desperation. We allhave to eat!

A solution is urgently needed for maintaining the future well being of the entire TurtleIsland region with sound economic and social principles adapted intricately andspecifically with the local ethnic communities in view, whereas, the communities

themselves must also be a key feature in regional decisions and implementations.

With regards to the above BIMP-EAGA / ASEAN Vientiane Declaration, tourismposes as a viable means to bring in funding and monies to communities to assist inreducing poverty and provide alternative ways to enhance annual community andfamily monetary incomes. Grants, NGO studies, etc. are temporary and usually endwhen the funding runs out. A long term, viable, economic and socially compatiblesolution is needed urgently.

This BEDP Proposal specifically addresses sound eco-tourism development withininternationally recognized principles of ecosystem conservation, protection andrestoration in direct view. The readers will also note as they review this Proposal that

there is a strong mariculture feature also employed within the development plan. Thisis important to not only provide sustenance to tourist patrons but also providealternative livelihood enterprises to the local communities in various grow-out & buy-back schemes for those seedlings produced in a hatchery environment.

In this Proposal, various Appendices have been provided:

Appendix A Don E. Baker, Jr CV & Supporting DocumentsAppendix B Turtle Islands InformationAppendix C Pertinent Philippine Gov. Acts

APPENDIX SECTIONS IN SEPARATE DOCUMENT:


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Appendix D Mariculture Potentials for Baguan IslandAppendix E Example Mariculture Giant ClamsAppendix F Hydroponics Waste Water Treatment DesignAppendix G Eco-Tourism PagesAppendix H Example Resort Designs SIMCAAppendix I Relevant Coral Reef / Tourism Pages

These Appendices have been provided as further background and supportinginformation; with some only with their cover pages of larger publications that thereaders can easily obtain via the internet. This includes the various PhilippineGovernment documents, whereas, these are rather long and repetitive in format.

It is not the intent of this Proposal to contain all pertinent references, documents thatare associated in the development of BEDP, whereas, the readers can refer to theReference section as well as the presented Appendices.

Examples of AutoCAD drawings of existing hydroponic waste water treatmentfacilities in Sabah, Malaysia should be of interest with regards to an eco-tourismfeature often overlooked or blatantly ignored. Drawings are also provided of touristresort layouts in SIMCA Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area, Sabah,Malaysia.

It is important to note herein that this Proposal has stated the problems and suggestsviable solutions to them without continuing on with questions yet to be answered.This Proposal answers the questions. For example, the mariculture of giant clamshas been undertaken since the early 1980s approaching 30 years. Scores ofmanuals for hatchery and grow-out procedures have been produced. There isabsolutely no need for further R&D in giant clam culturing; just do it!

This Proposal is also a pro-active and implementing document to inspire quick andtimely action for instituting viable economic means for benefiting the Turtle Islandswith regards to sustainable mariculture, eco-tourism, regional BIMP-EAGA security,resource conservation & restoration, community social alternative livelihoodopportunities, and Good Governance. Truly indeed, it always seems to come to thecommon denominator - of a lack of money - to support the various startup aspects ofthese features. Eco-Tourism development and investment is a means to provide thatmoney!

The Proposals lead presenters CV and supporting Letters have also been submittedto point out his years of experience in mariculture, MPA management, involvement inthe ARMM region, and eco-tourism in Malaysia.

Lastly, a version of this Proposal was originally presented by this same Presenter in2003 under other partys involvement with Coral Guard and the Baguan IslandMarine Protected Area Center (BIMPAC). This effort is no longer being undertakenby the Presenter as no action came of this first effort.


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Considered as the most diverse ecological region in the entire World with regards tocoral reef species, South East Asia is what Dr. Eugene Clark calls an Evolutionaryepicenter of coral life on our planet.

As compared to Caribbean with only 60 species of corals, coral diversity in SouthEast Asia amounts to some 450 species. The Sulu Sea exists right in the middle ofthis diverse region that includes an area from Thailand to the Philippines - Indonesiato the southern part of Taiwan.

Unfortunately, with over 50% of the Worlds coral reefs in serious peril, South EastAsia poses as a region that is under the most environmental stress brought onprimarily through a radical increase in human development features. Less than 10%of the coral reefs in Indonesia are in relatively pristine, unaffected condition. Pristinecoral reefs no longer exist in the Philippines as a result of massive human

exploitation, extractive-harvesting, coastal over population requiring dailysustenance, and destructive fishing methods.


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What can be done to stop this destruction? How can this aberrant state of affairs ofcoral reef affection in South East Asia, and more specifically the Sulu Sea, be turnedaround and result in a pro-active program for coral reef protection and restoration?Where will the funding come from to even establish such efforts?

In an effort to put a stop to aberrant fishing practices and other environmentallydestructive actions currently taking place in the Turtle Islands ARMM region, aviable and economically feasible plan of action is required that will ensure protectionand allow ecosystem restoration either through natural means or appliedmariculture and other innovative methods.

To be able to put such a plan into action, an island site must be identified to allowvarious ecosystem monitoring and restoration programs relatively free, unaffected,and secure implementation, whereas, an island site should have:

- Little or no residential population

- Minimum infrastructure- Adequate beach & coral reef area free from any ongoing commercial

exploitation- Furthest from nearby Sabah so as to minimize any pollution affection- Large enough to support eco-friendly island guest infrastructure away

from important beach areas utilized by turtle egg deposition- Adequate ground source freshwater

The ideally suited site in consideration of the above criteria poses to be BaguanIsland.

Consequently, this proposal represents a collaborative pro-active effort to notonly save and conserve the coral reef ecosystems of this unique region of theSulu Sea but also be able to combine appropriate tourism in an eco-friendlyand eco-sustainable manner to provide the economic investment funding.

This effort, in turn, will generate the required and ongoing funding needed toimplement and maintain the various coral reef monitoring and restoration programs.In addition, the international tourism community will have a unique marine natureexperience opportunity in seeing a Tawi Tawi ARMM based ecosystemmanagement and rehabilitation program in action.

With the ongoing coral reef destruction in the Sulu Sea, this development planrequires immediate consideration for subsequent implementation through appropriatePhilippine coastal and sustainable ecotourism development guidelines andgovernment review regulations.

The overall concept of this proposal briefis toprovide a viable and working solutionto an ecological crisis that is readily prevalent throughout not just the Sulu Sea, butalso most of the nations that have vast coastal zones, whereas, the same often have


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inadequate or ineffective monitoring and protective management plans for its marinenatural resources.

Though a single island, the Island of Baguan offers an ideal opportunity toundertake:

- Administer effective control for sanctuary and guidelines enforcement- Island and reef habitat cleanup and floral & fauna restoration- Detailed marine ecosystem survey flora & fauna species diversity profile as

well as database for long-term monitoring programs- Coral reef destructive species control and monitoring i.e. Crown of Thorns

Sea star, sea urchin, Drupella snail [coral predators]- Giant clam species survey and sanctuary inception- Giant clam hatchery for reef restocking and species recovery i.e. Tr idacna

gigas[true giant clam]- Continued maintenance of a turtle hatchery beach sites to assist in species

recovery from aberrant regional fishing practices- The presence of field offices for DENR, AFP, PNP, and WWF as well as

quarters for visiting national and international scientists- The Protection through Presence axiom can also generate funding via

appropriate, low impact / eco-friendly tourist-guest facilities, whereas, such iscurrently maintained on the Malaysian TIHPA island of Selingaan and atLankayan Island, and soon Billean Island, in SIMCA

With the vast amount of island regions of the ARMM Province of Tawi Tawi, thePhilippine Governments desire to monitor and enforce guidelines for proper law &fishing practices is extremely costly and subsequently only marginally effective inlimited areas of targeted concern.

Therefore, it is both logical as well as feasible for ARMM and the Tawi TawiProvincial Government to appreciate the willingness and ability of the private sectorto lend a hand with this historical dilemma of coastal resource protection and alsoeventually become self-funding through eco-tourism.

The herein presented BAGUAN ISLAND ECO-TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN(BEDP) project plan provides a working means for the establishment of a real andpresent marine sanctuary and controlled area marine protected area [MPA]specifically for the Turtle Island of Baguan.

BEDP for Baguan Island will also provide for:

- The 24 hour presence of staff & personnel- Initial startup funding for setup & installations- Funding annual depreciation coverage as well as for ongoing programs and

operations- Biological & environmental monitoring programs- Educational and interpretive programs- Government involvement, assistance, and support- Enforcement, control, and management regulations / guidelines- Local, indigenous community collaboration & support

The alternative to not having a plan of this caliber and scope in action and effectwould be the continued destruction of the islands ecosystems brought on by the


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selfish gain of a very few local and illegally present foreign fishermen and have noviable alternative means for generating community income other than continuing tosupport such illegal activities.

BEDP also poses as a milestone and proactive beginning in an ongoing plan toeventually conserve and utilize the coral reef ecosystems throughout the entire SuluArchipelago in an ecofriendly and sustainable manner and initiate eco-tourism to helpsupport these efforts.

The success of the BEDP would be appreciated and assessed with the achievementof:

- Eradication of all forms of illegal and/or aberrant fishing from the sanctuaryMPA region of control and assure effective alternative means of income forthe Turtle Islands communities

- Provide viable options for establishing long term alternative livelihoodenterprises for the local island communities

- Assurance of regional ARMM Provincial, National Security, and International

security- Island habitat flora and fauna restoration- Progressive coral reef habitat species diversity increase and restoration- Restoration of sea grass bed habitats through natural means- Increase of turtle nesting on the regional islands- Increase of marine mammals visiting the sanctuary region- Firm and working establishment of field stations for DENR, WWF and other

national & international institutions- Increase of appropriate theme tourist visitor-guest patronization &

appreciation to support BEDP goals and milestone achievements


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From: Whittingham, E., Campbell, J. and Townsley, P. (2003). Poverty and Reefs,DFIDIMMIOC/UNESCO, 260pp.

Tourism is frequently promoted as a highly profitable industry. Coastal areas andcoral reefs are magnets for tourism development and in many cases the industry ispromoted as a means to provide alternatives to fishery-based livelihoods and ensurethe sustainability of local coral reef resources.

Coral reef areas around the world have experienced a huge increase in tourismdevelopment, with many millions of tourists visiting reef areas annually. In theCaribbean alone, 20 million people visit coastal areas, where coral reefs attract 60%ofthe worlds scuba-diving tours (ICRI, 2002a).

The development of coral reef tourism has the potential to bring valuable benefits tolocal communities. In many coral reef areas, tourism is one of the main industriesbringing employment and income-generating opportunities to coastal areas. Thedevelopment of infrastructure (roads, communications, etc.) associated with theexpansion of tourism may also bring benefits to local communities. However, theability of the poorer members of the community to access the benefits of tourism isfar from guaranteed and requires a sensitivity of development guided by social,

cultural and environmental principles. Such an approach is encompassed in small-


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scale eco-tourism activities, which have attracted growing recognition for their role insustainable development.

While there are clearly potential benefits of tourism development to localcommunities, in many cases the absence of proper planning and recognition of localneeds and priorities, has marginalized local communities and led to conflict betweentourism and local small-scale fishers.

EXAMPLES OF SUCCESSFUL CORAL REEF ECO-TOURISM

In the Solomon Is lands, the Solomon Island Village Stayswere developed in orderto let the traveler experience the true feeling of the Solomon Islands. There is anetwork of over 20 village home stays located throughout the Solomon Islands. Afamily of the village operates each home stay. This gives the local villagers anopportunity to earn cash without selling their land to developers or loggers.

The BelizeEco-tourism Association, was created on Earth Day in 1993.As part of its

Code of Ethics, it recognizes the need to support economic and social sustainabilityby encouraging small-scale tourist developments, providing employment of localpeople, purchasing products made locally from sustainable resources and providingguidance to all guests to be environmentally and culturally responsible. In the last fewyears, the Western SamoaVisitor's Bureau has established a National Eco-tourismProgramme. The programme promotes a variety of types of sustainable tourism,which are designed to directly benefit rural villagers, contributing a proportion of tourfees directly to the villagers.

(From:The United Nations Department of Social and Economic Affairs, Division for SustainableDevelopment, Small Island Developing States Unit Eco-tourism Success Stories SIDS websitehttp://www.sidsnet.org/eco-tourism/index.html )

Increasing numbers of reef dependents and degrading reef resources are commonlyresulting in a reduction in reef benefits per capita. With little or no access toalternative resources, poor reef users must expend greater and greater efforts tomaintain the flow of benefits from the reef, so pressure on reef resources increasesand the availability of benefits decline further. As the resources decline, not only dothe quality and quantity of products decline, so does the diversity of productsavailable.

As coral reef resources decline their capacity to support the coastal poor, providinglivelihood stability and reducing vulnerability, will erode. This has clearly already been

the case in many parts of the world, where poor reef stakeholders have suffered aloss of livelihood security and increasing risks and conflicts, which have commonlyresulted in unsustainable and often illegal livelihoods. In many cases this situationhas been worsened by external market forces and conservation efforts, which haveresulted in the exclusion of poor reef stakeholders.


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Whilst the reef provides a wide range of benefits to many people - especially to thepoor - those benefit flows are changing as a result of factors that are impacting uponthe reef. Some of these impacts are caused by the very people who depend upon thereef.

Many more are caused by changes outside the control of reef-dependentcommunities. Some of these changes are occurring at the moment, others arepredicted to occur in the future as a result of climate change and other trends.

The impact of these changes varies between different stakeholder groups, but in

general the poor are finding that their livelihoods are being stressed more than mostand they are the least able to respond. The changes are likely to result in the decline


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of a wide array of benefit flows, to greater exclusion of the poor, increasing conflict,criminalisation of the poor, declining food security and more unstable livelihoods. Asmentioned in previous sections, many groups of people who are currently above thepoverty line are likely to fall below it as a result of these changes.

White and Deguit (2000) suggest that after many years of working with ICZMapproaches in the Philippines, new directions for coastal management are required.This involves, amongst other things, much greater levels of participation than hasbeen used in the past.

In reviewing progress on the management of coral reefs in Eastern Africa, Wells(2000) notes that the priority ingredients for success are:

Involving local communities in decision-making and management; Ensuring appropriate livelihoods for those immediately dependent on reefs for their income; Developing integrated coastal management frameworks forcoral reef management; Involving the tourism and dive industries; Identifying mechanisms for sustainable financing; Promoting training and capacity building; Establishing long-term monitoring programmes.

It is also pointed out that coral reef management is becoming seen much more as a

way of life rather than a series of short-term projects.

One focused instrument often used in ICZM is the Marine Protected Area (MPA).There are over 1600 MPAs scattered throughout the worlds oceans4, covering 1% ofthe marine environment, of which 660 incorporate coral reefs (Spalding et al., 2001).MPAs, known variously as marine parks, reserves, or sanctuaries are increasinglybeing used

as tools in ICZM and collaborative or cooperative management initiatives, forprotecting and restoring marine biodiversity, ensuring sustainable fisheriesmanagement and in association with tourism developments.

According to the World Wide Fund for Nature, the purpose of MPAs is to:


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Help protect vulnerable habitats and threatened species; Increase fishery productivity by protecting critical breeding, nursery, and feeding habitatssuch as estuaries, mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs; Protect breeding populations which can help restock and restore overexploited areas; Reduce the impact of tourism and other direct human activities; Provide local communities with alternative livelihoods, such as well-managed tourism.

Depending on local circumstances, MPAs vary greatly in the extent to which theymeet these multiple objectives. In some cases MPAs may be established principallyas a tool for biodiversity protection, fisheries management or tourism and in othercases multiple use strategies, including a number of the above may be employed.

There is evidence that MPAs can be used effectively to meet these objectives, inparticular in enhancing fish stocks. However, only a decade ago it was noted thatonly a small percentage of the worlds MPAs were effectively managed (White,1994).

Kenchington (2000) notes that . . . the concept of a protected area that can be

managed in effective isolation from activities in surrounding areas is not ecologicallytenable. Likewise, the success of MPAs in terms of sustaining reef benefits to poorstakeholders depends largely on the extent to which locals have participated innegotiating the objectives of the area and in subsequent management andmonitoring

EXAMPLES OF ECONOMIC VALUATIONS OF CORAL REEFS

In a World Bank study on the economic value of coral reefs in Indonesia, Cesar(1996) analysed the net benefit to individuals and costs to society as a result of fivedifferent threats to coral reefs (poison fishing, blast fishing, coral mining,

sedimentation and pollution, and over-fishing). This clearly showed, that for none ofthe threats do the short term benefits even approach the long-term costs (under theassumptions of a 10% discount rate and 25 year horizon).

For example, coral mining is estimated to yield net benefits to individuals ofUS$121000 per km2 of reef, while causing net losses to society of US$93 600 infisheries value,US$12 000260 000 in coastal protection value, US$2900 481 900 in tourism value,US$67 000 in forest damage, and unknown costs due to lost food security andbiodiversity. (From: Cesar, 1996)

In a review of the values ofPhilippines coastal resources, White and Cruz-Trinidad

(1998) have estimated that the combined value of coral reefs, mangroves, fisheriesand aquaculture contribute at least US$3.5 billion every year to the Philippinenational economy. Of this, the total area of coral reef was estimated to contribute anannual economic benefit of at least US$1.35 billion to the national economy, from thecombined values of fisheries, tourism and coastal protection.(From:White and Cruz-Trinidad, 1998)

From: Whittingham, E., Campbell, J. and Townsley, P. (2003). Poverty and Reefs,DFIDIMMIOC/UNESCO, 260pp.

Eco-tourism in the Philippines is still a new theme endeavor yet to be fully realized inany appreciable development schemes nationwide.


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In an effort to control the adverse effects of large-scale coastal tourism developmentsand to provide accessible alternative livelihood opportunities to local communities,sustainable tourism and eco-tourism are frequently promoted. These are oftenundertaken as part of collaborative management or ICZM initiatives, promoting small-scale, low impact activities which provide direct benefits to the locals involved.However, the extent to which the poorer members of a community may benefit fromeco-tourism is unclear. Often such initiatives require those involved to have a certainlevel of language skills, or to be the owners of particular physical resources (boats orextra rooms). This may require extra support or skills training for poorer households,it may also not be a socially or culturally acceptable alternative for some households,e.g. female-headed households.

The Philippine Archipelago is an upper ranking Medium Human Development country(UNDP, 2002), where poverty is largely associated with rural areas and naturalresource based livelihoods. Most of the population lives in coastal areas, which arebordered by the third largest expanse of coral reef associated with a single nation

(Spalding et al., 2001). Reef fisheries constitute 10% of the total fish production in thePhilippines and as much as 70% of the total harvest on some small islands (Cesar,1996; White and Cruz-Trinidad, 1998, respectively). It has been estimated that morethan one million small-scale fishers depend directly on reef fisheries for theirlivelihood and coral reefs contribute significantly to protein supplies, in a countrywhere more than 50% of animal protein is derived from marine

The countrys natural resource base continues to be under threat , and the economicvalue of natural resources is on the downward trend due to high deforestation rates,depletion of fishery resources, inefficiencies brought by the partial devolution of ENRmanagement to LGUs, continuing degradation of upland soils, degradation ofbiodiversity, and unstable government policies, among others. The Government is

revising some of its environment protection plans and programs to improvepredictability and enforcement.

Originally slated in 2004 by DENR, with an anticipated startup budget of $US600,000.00, was a program entitled Poverty Reduction Through BiodiversityConservation and Environmental Rehabilitation (ADTA). Unfortunately, this programwas cancelled.

(COUNTRY STRATEGY AND PROGRAM UPDATE 2004-2006 / PHILIPPINES,ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK November 2003, 97pp.)

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TIHPA: Turtle Islands Heritage Protected Area

The Philippine-Sabah Turtle Islands harbor one of the worlds few remaining majornesting grounds for green turtles (Chelonia mydas). In a historic bilateral agreement,the Governments of the Philippines and Malaysia established the first and only trans-frontier protected area for marine turtles in the world.

Both countries, making possible the conservation of habitats and sea turtles over alarge area independent of their territorial boundaries, share management of theTIHPA. Because of this unprecedented initiative, both implementing agencies of theTIHPA - the Pawikan Conservation Project under the Protected Areas and Wildlife


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Bureau of the Philippines' and Sabah Parks of Malaysia - were named the 20th J.Paul Getty Wildlife Conservation Prize awardees in April 1997.

The Philippine-Sabah Turtle Islands group is located in the Sulu Sea, at thesouthwestern tip of the Philippines, about 1,000 km southwest of Manila and some

40 km north of Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia. These nine islands (six in the Philippinesand three in Malaysia) lie adjacent to the international treaty limits that separate thetwo countries.

The Turtle Islands Park of Sabah in Malaysia is composed of Pulau Selingaan, PulauBakkungan Kechil and Pulau Gulisaan; gazetted as a national park on October 1,1977.

The Philippine Turtle Islands include Boan, Langaan, Lihiman, Great Bakkungan,Taganak and Baguan. Of the six islands, only Baguan is fully protected, having beendeclared a marine sanctuary through legislation in 1982.


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As early as1990, the

ASEANWorking

Group forNature

Conservation(AWGNC)

saw the needfor

collaborativeefforts to

conservemarine turtles

in the ASEANRegion. In1991, the

Philippines, through the Pawikan Conservation Project of the DENR, proposed theorganization of a regional workshop that would formulate a plan for the conservationand management of sea turtles in the Region. In 1993, this activity was successfullyundertaken through the 1st ASEAN Symposium Workshop on Marine Turtle

Conservation, which was held in Manila, Philippines. The ASEAN Senior Officials forthe Environment (ASOEN) approved the regional plan in 1994.

One of the major areas of concern identified during the workshop was the

conservation of the remaining major nesting areas in the ASEAN Region. The mostprominent among these areas is the Philippine-Sabah Turtle Islands, as well as theBerau Islands of Indonesia, which were declared as an ASEAN Heritage ProtectedArea for Sea Turtles. However, given that the ASEAN is a political institution witheight member nations (there were only six in 1993) and must deal with a diversity ofissues from different points of view, the finalization of a regional agreement involvingall the Parties is expected to take a long time. In 1995, through the Joint Commissionfor Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC), the Governments of the Philippines and Malaysianegotiated for the establishment of the TIHPA, with technical assistance from WWF-Philippines. The bilateral agreement establishing the TIHPA was formalized on May31, 1996 during the 3rd Meeting of the JCBC in Manila.

TIHPA AS AN URGENT RESPONSE TO CONSERVATION

Globally, turtle populations are experiencing dramatic population declines dueespecially to growing pressures caused by direct exploitation as well as degradationof the marine habitats used by turtles. The Philippines-Sabah Turtle Islands are notspared from this predicament. Realizing that the long-term survival of species thatmigrate through the oceans cannot be achieved at just the national level, the twoGovernments collaborated to ensure the conservation of these shared resourcesthrough TIHPA.

The TIHPA is the first trans-frontier protected area for marine turtles in the world. Theagreement identified priority activities for collaboration to achieve the goal of theTIHPA.


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The priority activities identified for joint implementation are the following:

Management-oriented research Establishment of a centralized database and information network Appropriate information awareness programs Marine turtle resource management and protection program Appropriate ecotourism program

Activities of the JMC

To implement the plans and programs of the TIHPA, a Joint Management Committeewas created to serve as a body that would oversee the overall direction of thecollaboration. The regular meetings of the JMC serve as the primary venue forplanning and resolving joint issues related to sea turtle conservation. Currently, theJMC is focusing on the formulation of a joint management plan to respond to thepriority activities identified as well as other related activities, which will facilitate the

implementation of programs for the TIHPA.

The JMC has also formulated and adopted its Rules of Procedures, a set of rules thatwill guide its members in conducting and observing protocols during meetings,resolving issues, and decision-making. Another accomplishment of the JMC is theinstallation of a radio communications network linking all the islands under theTIHPA.

As part of the ongoing management planning process, a joint aerial mapping surveywill be undertaken in 1999 to update relevant information pertinent to the planningprocess.Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary [TIWS] includes seven small islands with unique

and extensive marine ecosystem located at the southwestern tip of the Philippines.Designated as Turtle Island Heritage Protected Area [TIHPA] in May 31, 1996between the Philippines and Malaysia, it is a major nesting site of the endangeredgreen sea turtle (Chelonia mydas).

The different islands exhibit varied vegetative cover; its vast water area supportsdiverse species of fish and other marine invertebrates of very high commercial value.

The value of the Turtle Islands cannot be exaggerated. The future recovery of thedeclining Green Turtle population would spell the future of this species consideringthat Turtle Islands is among the only 10 breeding aggregations in the world. BecauseSea Turtles demonstrate site fixity, i.e., they turn to their natal beach; the loss of the

turtle population in Turtle islands will be permanent since any other population couldnot replenish it.

Biodiversity Characteristics

Fifty (50) seaweeds species were identified for the marine flora, 17 species of whichcould be used for food, medicine, fertilizers, minerals and animal feeds. Regarded asthe only major nesting ground of the endangered Green Turtle in the whole ASEANregion, (80%) of the Philippines remaining marine turtle resource is found in thearea. While it supports a diverse population of marine fauna, the Turtle Islandsnurtures several species of birds as well with 2 species not found anywhere outsidethe country, namely: the Philippine Glossy Starling (Aplonis p. panayensis) and thePink-Necked Green Pigeon (Treron v. vernans).


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With more than 361 fish species record, the fish and coral assemblage in the TurtleIsland group has the highest diversity compared to all other protected marine areassurveyed in the Philippines.

Baguan Island

Baguan is a 29.1-hectare, bell-shaped island with a coastline of 1.7 km. It ischaracterized by an expansive beach flat at the southern part and a rolling to gentlysloping hill in the north. It is volcanic in origin, later enlarged by the deposition of thecoastal plain at the southern part. The volcanic part of the island is elevated, with amaximum elevation of about 40 m ASL. The hill is moderately steep.

The sandy flatland in the southern portion of Baguan makes up the largest part of theisland. The flatland is 644 m wide at its broadest part with an average elevation of 3m ASL. Fringing this flatland is a belt of coralline sand beach.

The coastline at the foot of the hills is rocky, with large volcanic boulders. In thesouth, wide sandy beaches surround the coastal plain. Erosion and accretion areactive, changing the island's outline over time. Fresh water is present in the form ofshallow groundwater.

Corals have colonized the substrate in the shallow waters surrounding the island.The reef extends approximately 300 m offshore in the south and is widest in the northwhere it extends approximately 1.2 kilometers offshore.

The accumulation of non-mineral organic materials that act as ephemeralconstituents of the beach may have a marked effect on beach processes andmorphology. The incorporation of large tree trunks (transported by ocean currents

from nearby Sabah) into the beaches has resulted in some temporary beach stability.This debris serves as traps, which inhibit the transport of sand and cause thetemporary storage of sand and stability of the beach environment. Beach erosionoccurs in areas adjacent to the beach.

[From WWF- Philippines]

SIMCA: Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area

The Cabinet approved marine conservation area in the Beluran District of Sabah,comprises of approximately 460 square kilometers, including the islands ofLankayan, Billean, and Tegaipil as well as the surrounding and adjacent coral reefsand sea grass beds.

Initially entitled as a conservation area under the Sabah Wildlife ConservationEnactment 1997 Section 21 (1), the Lankayan-Billean-Tegaipil [LBT] region, for thepurpose of falling in line with various International conventions, will hereafter becalled a Marine Protected Area [MPA].

General Management Guidelines & Rules for SIMCA:

No Fishing

No Taking No Anchoring on Reefs


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No Waste Discarding No Destruction

In addition to this enactment, the region is entitled - Sugud Islands MarineConservation Area [SIMCA].

The recently approved SIMCA-MPA Management Plan - July 2002 submissionresulted from a November 2001 submission of the LBT-MPA management planwhich closely followed a general format adapted from the World Commission onProtected Areas

[WCPA] and The World Conservation Union [IUCN]; Annex 2 of the Guidelines forMarine Protected Areas / Best Practice Protected Area Guidelines Series No.3, 1999.

As a result of the November 2001 Management Plan, the LBT region was officiallydeclared a conservation area under Section 21(1) of the Wildlife ConservationEnactment 1997 - effective December 13rd, 2001; Survey Lot No. 08200041 / Plan

No. L.S.C 1204-8-2-40.

Geographic and Habitat Classification

The SIMCA region is located in the northeastern coastal region of Sabah, Malaysiaor approximately 8 to 20 kilometers off the main island of Borneo. With the samearea as part of the Sulu Sea, the SIMCA exists on a shallow underwater shelf that isan extension of the island landmass of Borneo itself.

Four [4] geographic types co-exist in the SIMCA-MPA region:

Coral reefs / fringing & patch Sand islands Shallow sea grass beds Deeper soft, mud / silt bottom

Island Status

Lankayan Island is the only island of SIMCA currently under TOL status with theSabah State Government. Billean and Tegaipil Island are currently under no lease orTOL status with any private sector person and/or group.

Coral Reef Status

Prior to the December 3rd, 2001 gazettement of the SIMCA region as a conservationarea, there were little or no restrictions on marine life harvesting. Consequently,SIMCA coral reef ecosystems have been severely affected by unregulated anduncontrolled exploitation by local and international commercial fishing operations.

Methods of harvesting have, for the most part, been highly destructive to theecosystems themselves using trawls, barrier nets, muro-ami, explosives, andpoisons. This devastation concerns both the physical / structural aspects of coralreefs in SIMCA and their overall biodiversity status.

There is also a steady increase of eutrophication as a result of rapid agriculturaldevelopment that brings significant concentrations of silt and nutrients from inland


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Sabah and transported via rivers systems to the SIMCA region. This, by far, can bethe most significant cause for wide spread coral reef ecosystem destruction.

Developed Areas

Islands within the SIMCA are zoned according to the following sectioning:

- Natural / Conservation- Facilities Support & Operations [Generator, Water, Septic Treatment]- Staff Facilities- Guest / Visitor Facilities- Restoration Facilities

Lankayan Island

Since 1995, Lankayan Island Dive Resort [LIDR] has been occupying this small 7-hectare island in various stages of development and associated infrastructureinstallations. Only in the past 2 years has the island been promoted in theinternational dive tourism markets primarily in Europe. Marketing and sales effortsare now reaching to Australia and the United States.

Major infrastructures in place:

- Jetty / Dive Centre Operations- Electrical generator building- Staff quarters line & upper scale

- Restaurant / Club house & lounge building- Kitchen & food storage building- 24 - Dive guest rooms

There has been minimum clearing of the islands natural flora, whereas, the buildingshave been fit in and around trees and large shrub patches. Approximately 70 % ofthe island remains as untouched Pandanus thickets with a few larger trees mixed in.

Billean Island

LIDR staff and management have been providing ongoing security and presence onthe island for the past year.

The island itself is approximately one half the size of Lankayan or approximately 3 hectares. About two thirds of the island is covered in thick shrubs and Pandanusgroves. The other third is clear with only thick grasses and ground vines. As withLankayan, Billean Island is also surrounded by coral sand beaches.

A second resort is now being installed at Billean Island; water village design.

Tegaipil Island

Presently inhabited by a Royal Malaysian Army detachment, Tegaipil Island hasbeen used in a similar capacity to that of Billean Island by past fish bombingoperations.


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Though the largest island in the SIMCA MPA, it is the most affected by humanpresence. Harvesting of the coral as well as the islands trees has greatly affectedthe natural conditions to the point of requiring a wide spread program of restoration.

[From Reef Guardian Sdn. Bhd. Management Entity for SIMCA]

33..00 BBAAGGUUAANN IISSLLAANNDD PPrrootteeccttiioonn bbyy EEccoo--TToouurriissmm PPrreesseennccee

For the past several years, the SIMCA island of Lankayan has existed as a uniquedive tourism facility that has resulted in substantial and significant level of coral reefrebirth and re-growth in and around the nearby reef habitats simply by its presence inthe region.

Blast and cyanide fishing operations have been significantly curtailed through thepro-active involvement of island staff and personnel making, oftentimes, dangerous

incursions and confrontations against the perpetrators. The diligence and passion ofthe island staff and management has resulted in the successful conservation of themany reefs in and around Lankayan Island itself.

The shallow reefs that surround Lankayan Island hosts hundreds of giant clams[Tridacna sp. 2 T. gigas], scores of juvenile Humphead Wrasse fishes [Cheilinusundulatus], and live hard coral coverage-density averaging approximately 80 % onthe outer reef fringes. The island is a clear case of a working example of protectionby presence.

If only to benefit biodiversity itself, the establishment of marine protected areas [MPA]are certainly justified for the sake of future generations to wonder and marvel at. But

in reality, all actions taken by human institutions warrants a system of cost & benefitexchange be it in a form of barter trade or direct monetary appreciation tomaintain any endeavor. The establishment of and support for a marine protectedarea or sanctuary in the Turtle Islands poses no exception to this basic fact. There isa cost and depreciation factor to maintain a MPA.

Without doubt, the future well-being and success for the Baguan Island marineprotected area implementation, administration, and enforcement will bedirectly geared and dependent upon a mutually agreed strategy forimplementing a viable system of cost & benefit exchange that will also benefitthe local communities residing in the nearby islands.

The word Benefit often appears to be a key and controversial term whenever parks,sanctuaries, and protected areas are concerned. Adversaries will challengeestablishment based on unequaled benefits and losses to communities, businesses,and even Government jurisdiction. Proponents for establishment too often disregardan equitable system of cost & benefit exchange and base their arguments onarbitrary / subjective save the world statements that often result in paper parkswithout adequate funding.


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Certainly there is a cost to maintain BEDP. This Proposal shows that ecotourismpatronage can do the job. What value is present in the Baguan Island sanctuary thattourists are willing to appreciate and pay for?

Through tourism, the value of the natural product features can be sold time and timeagain without loss or extraction of the same. But only if properly managed will thetotal economic value potential of the BEDP be appreciated through carefully plannedand appropriately applied ecotourism patronage.

It is through extractive endeavors, that these same natural features [i.e. fish, turtles,sharks, and giant clams] are sold once to the benefit of very few - and goneforever.

What benefits then would the ARMM government appreciate with the establishmentof this Plan? What benefits would the Philippines, as a nation, also receive?

Without the tourism factor involved, there may be little or no secure and ongoingfunding to realistically implement and effectively manage the protected areas.

Though the eco-tourist entities themselves will be undertaking a major investmentand risk by supporting the overall establishment and management of the BEDP there

Tourism valuation profile forBaguan Island:

- Coral reef ecosystems for exploration & discovery- Marine life for general & specialized photography- Coral reef study & restoration programs to learn from and

participate- Marine Park support and appreciation- Comfortable eco-friendly guest accommodations for rest &

relaxation- Assured patronage security through the presence of both military

and police personnel

Benefits appreciated by instituting BEDP:

An increase of local and international eco-tourism patronage to the Turtle Islands An increase for utilizing associated tourism support areas [e.g. air, land and sea

transportation, food & beverage wholesale, seafood supply, communications] An increase in local citizen training & employment opportunities An increase in nearby fishery stocks available for harvesting

An increase of available scientific data generated from various cooperativeinstitutional studies and programs An increase to national security in this ARMM region to the benefit of both the

Philippines and Malaysia An increase to national prestige by having a SMART supported BEDP through

private sector management and government cooperation


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must always be clear and transparent dialogue between the ARMM, Provincialgovernment, , the Malaysian BIMP-EAGA counterparts, and the tourism proponents.

From the standpoint of Lankayans success example nearby in Sabah, Malaysia, BEDPpresents an applied pro-active commitment to conserve and restore the marine and islandecosystems of Baguan Island. Consequently, BEDPTurtle Islands - Province of Tawi TawiARMM is considered a long-term project that may well carry on in perpetuity.

44..00 BBEEDDPP PPRROOJJEECCTT SSCCOOPPEE MMaajjoorrFFeeaattuurreess && BBuuddggeettiinngg

4.1 Module Start-Up Funding - Budget Summary (2007)

TOTAL Estimated Budget for BEDP: $ 76,000,000.00 Peso

Module funding is presented with regards to various ways and means for allocating

startup capital from a variety of sources, whereas, one source could be a grant froman international NGO that would pay for Hatchery & Monitoring Materials / Supplies.

All Estimates are subject to more defined and detailed assessments with suppliers,contractors, and administration & implementation arrangements and subject to re-evaluation and changes in order to present a more accurate project scope topotential investor clientele.

Investment Budget Estimated for BEDP Start-Up (2007):

FACILITY TYPE Description Budget [P$] Budget [US$] Budget [RM$]

Module A Administration & Marine Programs $P 3,835,000.00Module B Infrastructure & Facilities Support $P21,190,000.00

Module C Defense & Related Features $P 2,015,000.00Module D Transport & Dive Boats & Motors $P 8,320,000.00Module E Guest & Staff Facilities $P 28,900,000.00Module F Project Implementations [Write-ups,

Designs, EIA]$P 3,315,000.00

Module G DENR Budget Assistance$P1,170,000.00

Module H PNP/Security Facilities$P1,170,000.00

Module I VIP Exec Qrts $P1,560,000.00Module J Labor / Installations / Transport [@25% of

materials]TBD

Module K Site Engineering Preparations TBDModule L Market & Sales Promo $P4,550,000.00

TOTAL Estimate(Less J&K): $P 75,985,000.00US$ Equivalent Estimate: $USD 1,670,000.00


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A. Admin. & Marine

Programs:

(@ 45.5P/US) (@ 3.5 RM/US)

Marine Hatchery & Lab. Phase One $3,380,000.00 $ 74,286.00 $ 260,000.00

Admin Office/Welcome 1 Building (beach side) $ 455,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 35,000.00

B. Infrastructure &Facilities Support:

Water Source & Distribution 1 System, 4 Well pts $2,860,000.00 $ 63,000.00 $ 220,000.00

Waste Water Treatment(include Septic/Clarifier)

2 System [hydroponics] $5,005,000.00 $110,000.00 $ 385,000.00

Wind Gen/Solar Hybrid 1 System $8,450,000.00 $185,715.00 $ 650,000.00

Electrical System 1 System & Building $4,875,000.00 $107,143.00 $ 375,000.00

C. Defense & Related:

Radar Surveillance System

(Tower & bld included)

1 System [32 NM] &

PC

$1,885,000.00 $41,430.00 $ 145,000.00

Communication System VHF Units & SSBSystem

$ 130,000.00 $ 2,860.00 $ 10,000.00

D. Transport & Dive Boats

& Motors

Baguan Transfer Boat 2 Units $4,160,000.00 $ 91,428.00 $ 320,000.00

Baguan Utility/Security Boat 2 Units $1,950,000.00 $ 42,860.00 $ 150,000.00

Dive Tour Boat 2 Units $2,210,000.00 $ 48,572.00 $ 170,000.00

E. Guest & Staff Facilities:

Guest/TouristVisitor Cabins 24 Units $16,000,000.00 $350,000.00 $ 1,225,000.00Restaurant & Interpretive Ctr 1 Facility $2,145,000.00 $ 47,143.00 $ 165,000.00

Dive Facilities & Equipmt 1 Facility $3,214,286.00 $ 71,430.00 $ 250,000.00

Staff QtrsSenior Staff 2 Buildings $1,690,000.00 $ 37,143.00 $ 130,000.00

Staff QtrsFemale 2 Buildings $ 845,000.00 $ 18,572.00 $ 65,000.00

Staff QtrsMale 2 Buildings $ 845,000.00 $ 18,572.00 $ 65,000.00

Workshop 1 Building $ 455,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 35,000.00

Gym/Spa 1 Building $1,170,000.00 $ 25,714.00 $ 90,000.00

Admin/Reception 1 Building $1,170,000.00 $ 25,714.00 $ 90,000.00

Storage 1 Building $ 520,000.00 $ 11,430.00 $ 40,000.00

Housekeeping/Laundry 3 Buildings $ 845,000.00 $ 18,572.00 $ 65,000.00

F. Project Implementations

Pacific Aqua-tech Systems S/B Design & Project Admin. $1,560,000.00 $ 34,286.00 $ 120,000.00

Government & EIA Budget Administrative & Cont. $1,105,000.00 $ 24,285.00 $ 85,000.00

General Contingency Various $ 650,000.00 $ 14,286.00 $ 50,000.00

FACILITY TYPE Description Budget [P$] Budget [US$] Budget [RM$]

G. DENR Budget Assistance Turtle Hatchery &Admin/Qrts

$1,170,000.00 $ 25,714.00 $ 90,000.00

H. PNP/Security Facilities Qrts & Canteen $1,040,000.00 $ 22,857.00 $ 80,000.00

Helio-Pad $ 130,000.00 $ 2,860.00 $ 10,000.00

I. VIP Exec Qrts 3 Buildings $1,560,000.00 $ 34,286.00 $ 120,000.00

J. Labor & Materials @ 35% of Materials TBD


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Transport

K. Site Engineering

Preparations

Contingency per landconditions

TBD

L. Market & Sales Promo

(budget for Sandakan)

Office & Comm

Business Establishment

$4,550,000.00 $100,000.00 $350,000.00

TOTAL ESTIMATED: $75,985,000.00 $1,670,000.00 $ 5,845,000.00

(Less J & K)

TBD: to be determined

Budget reflects startup summary /overview and not a detailed operational Budget,whereas, a ten (10) year Profit &Loss statement will be required for determininginvestment feasibility and attractiveness.

4.2 Time for Implementation & Startup

4.2.1 Project Progression / Infrastructures - All:

- Mobilization Period 60 days- Island Survey & Infrastructure Location Assessment 30 days- Infrastructure Design Finalization & BQ 60 days- Materials Procurement & Transfer / Site Prep. 60 days- Installation & Operational Commencement 180 days

4.2.2 Project Progression / Conservation & Sanctuary:

- Operational mobilization & commencement 90 days- Coral reef ecosystem survey & monitoring program 1 Year- Turtle hatchery assessment 30 days- Giant clam hatchery installation & ops start 90 days- Giant clam sanctuary setup 120 days- Coral nursery setup 60 days

4.3 Business Feature

An in-house, propriety business plan will be jointly evolved by involved parties basedupon:

- Tourist / Visitor patronage and associated features- Collaborative marketing & sales primarily with Sabah based agents- Cultural & Regional promotions and- Marine sea farming and island based agricultural programs that, in turn, helps

support patronage food requirements- ARMM/Philippine Government & Malaysian Customs & Immigration

collaboration


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- Ecosystem restoration programs as a legitimate long term, win-wininvestment in ecotourism

- Multi varied user fee applications- Innovative funding & sponsorship programs- NGO grant assistance to help offset annual MPA administration costs

4.4 Infrastructure Features

KEY Points for the BEDP:

4.4.1 Power Systems & Fuels

- All power generation will be located at a single, centralized area buildinghousing a modern, state-of-the-art solar power system with a new, efficientdiesel engine as a backup for battery charging

- All fuel handling will be carried out with proper transfer containers andassociated means for safe, efficient movement from boat-beach-storage

- Power distribution will be with underground or HDPE pipe runs insulated,

armored cabling- All associated cleaning materials, used engine oil & lubricants will be safelyhandled and properly stored for subsequent removal from the island

4.4.2 Freshwater Supply

- Freshwater will be a combination of rainwater collection-storage and limitedpumping of available groundwater

- Freshwater for drinking and shower use will be from a single filtration,storage & distribution system

4.4.3 Food & Beverage

- Food & beverage operations will be operated from a single outlet for touristsand at canteen units for staff, DENR and security personnel

- Supplies to be in bulk so as to minimize packaging waste and subsequentremoval from the island

4.4.4 Support Operations

- All Laundry will be washed with certified biodegradable soaps- All bath soaps and other cleaners used on-island will be certified -

biodegradable

4.4.5 Dive Operations

- All diving operations will be from a single, strategically located area- New dive boats 2 units that can handle 12 diver guests comfortably per boat- Limited Time Use [LTU] guidelines will be implemented for managing all dive

sites especially if other resorts become involved

4.4.6 Access to Island

- Only beach landings allowed no jetty is planned- Guests will be off-loaded at a main island theme entrance separate from

island support & supply off-loading area

4.4.7 Waste Materials


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- All solid & liquid waste materials will be properly managed either withspecialized treatment systems [hydroponics & compost] or removed from theisland

4.4.8 Guest & Staff Quarters

- All guest rooms will be built no closer than 60 feet from the MHWL freeingthe beach in full for turtle egg laying

- Staff quarters will be strategically located nearby various support operations- Room themes will be of a local cultural nature that emphasizes a local flavor- All access to guest rooms will be from the rear facing in towards island

interior

- All lights will be at the rear of each guest house so that such will not deterturtles from beach landing but only the northern part of the island willdesignated for eco-tourism infrastructure as this area has very limited beachlanding potential.

55..00 BBEEDDPP PPRROOJJEECCTT SSCCOOPPEE SSttrraatteeggyy EEmmppllooyyeedd

5.1 BIMPAC Tourism Development Advantages & Disadvantages

Why develop, install, and operate dive tour operations in a remote region at all? Thedisadvantages are, in reality, only inconveniences.

In todays level of technical and engineering capabilities, one can operate a resortpractically anywhere on the planet. There, of course, are costs and investments toconsider before one decides to install, say, a ski-resort on the high slopes of theHimalayan Mountains or an undersea hotel on the Great Barrier Reef.

To outweigh the disadvantages of not having fulltime direct human resourcemanagement in a remote setting, there must be clear and well-defined standardoperating procedures to provide daily-weekly-monthly guidance for staff.

Baguan Island also has the distinct advantage of being the only ecotourismoperations located in the TIHPA region itself, which, in turn provides businessexclusivity. This exclusivity factor is an advantage to marketing but may be adisadvantage for operational logistics.

5.2 Island Logistics

Unlike a hotel or dive tour operation located close by supportive vendors andsuppliers, remote island resorts are presented with unique and critical logistics thatwarrants a strategy for routine sustenance and replenishment.

Island resorts are 100 % independent mini-communities, whereas, the basic needsfor human habitation must be provided for by the management structure andadministration setup. These basic needs include, drinking water, food, shelter, solid& liquid waste dispensing, electrical power, communications and transportation.

The management and staff must be confident and experienced in order to ensurecontinued operations through ongoing supply and replenishment logistics.


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Consequently, much of the start up investment and simple sales projection summarydata presented in this paper indicates sustainable operations based upon a remoteisland setting that is different from a city hotel.

Major expenses accrued second to that of manpower is fuel and facility maintenance.In an island setting, the harsh marine and off shore environment also adds to thedepreciation of buildings, engines, equipment and furnishings. Poor or inadequatemaintenance and management also of the same adds to asset losses andjeopardizes tourism profitability in the long term view. This has certainly closed manyresorts down all across the globe.

5.3 Marketing

It is precisely the remote island setting that directly assists in marketing for touristpatronage. The further away a resort is from other facilities and places, the better thechances for experiencing a more pristine natural setting. This is especially importantwith the way tourism is now gearing towards nature or eco-tourism.

With the inception of the BEDP, such poses as an excellent marketing tool and edgethat perhaps very few island ecotourism facilities have. A marine protected areajointly supported under the care and management of a private sector entity is aunique paradigm that will eventually gain world recognition. International recognitionas a MPA will directly assist in any marketing strategy or program employed by andfrom the BEDP.

5.4 The Funding

Without doubt, the main avenue for funding the BEDP and its administration can onlycome from well planned and well managed eco-tourism development. The key

feature for being able to undertake tourism within the TIHPA region is a viablebusiness & science relationship based upon a workable management plan.

Valuation of what products & services that the TIHPA region can provide to inspireand maintain tourism patronage is clearly understood by Reef Guardian Sdn. Bhd inits management of SIMCA. Effective and enduring Baguan Island management isessential to ensure the value and quality of the product persists over time.

The private sector parties involved with SIMCA already have a substantiateinvestment in infrastructure, manpower, and business setup undertaken withLankayan Island Dive Resort (LIDR). The same parties further believe thatcommissioning an additional resort operation on Billean Island will greatly add to the

overall tourism benefit of SIMCA for years to come and guarantee its economicsustainability.

LIDR projections alone clearly show that even at an average annual 26 % resortoccupancy, approximately 50 % of the annual funding required for a fully staffedSIMCA management Reef Guardian team is met. This same strategy can be readilyapplied for Baguan Island through the BEDP.

5.5 The Risk

With LIDR in full operation for the past nearly ten (10) years, their investment partieshave a clear and present understanding about operating a resort and dive center in a


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remote setting as noted for SIMCA. This same business sense and experience couldbe expanded upon to encompass the entire TIHPA region.

Certainly it has been well noted during the evolving course of this proposal write upthat the risk of investment is outweighed by the anticipated benefits. Benefits reflect afull spectrum of recipients:

- The tourist patronage national & international- The island & marine ecosystems of TIHPA- The local communities with associated mariculture programs- The Local communities with direct and indirect employment benefits- The National & Provincial Government- The Security within terms of BIMP-EAGA cooperation between the

Philippines and Malaysia- The investment parties themselves- The staff and management involved with tourism- The staff and management involved with scientific study

5.6 Support Staff & Facilities

5.6.1 Manpower & Island Staff

Manpower required for assisting in the ecotourism aspects will be skilled /experienced as well as non-skilled.

Eco-Guest and dive operations will be staffed primarily from local Turtle Island /ARMM residents. Many of the staff will have had prior experience and training duringtheir work pass tenures in Sabah, Malaysia especially from Lankayan Island Dive

Resort itself.

Specialists in marine & coral reef ecosystem assessment, restoration, and ongoingmonitoring programs will be required and recruited from local institutes, NGOs andprivate sector avenues.

Representatives from DENR as well as the Fisheries sections of the Department ofAgriculture will be present.

Detachments of either or both AFP and PNP will be required for security andassisting in sanctuary guideline enforcement.

5.6.2 Island Support Capacity

As Baguan Island is a declared sanctuary specifically implemented for turtleconservation and egg deposition / hatchery enhancement, human presence must belimited, but at the same time allow for ecotourism capacity to enhance fundingsupport for the same.

In addition, the overall infrastructure and facility support design must be closelygeared to adequately care for and maintain a certain level of human amenitieswithout affecting the islands marine and terrestrial ecosystems in any negative,permanent, and un-restorable manner.


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It is therefore recommended that the maximum number of guest quarters be no morethan 24 units. Each unit can be twin sharing bringing the maximum number ofecotourism guests to be 48.

Ecotourism support staff will be allocated on a 1:1 basis or one staff per guest.Government, scientist, and other security staff will also be limited.

Island Human Presence Allocations Number of Personnel

DENR / Dept. of Agriculture-Fisheries 8

Scientist / NGO Representatives 8

Mariculture Technicians 6

AFP & PNP 16

JV Visiting Malaysia PGA/TLDM 8

Eco-Tourist Guests 48

Eco-Tourist Support Staff 48

TOTAL Recommended Allocation: 142

5.6.3 Island Access

No infrastructures will be located over water or upon beach areas. Access to BaguanIsland will primarily be from the southern reef, whereas, boats will temporarily landdirectly on the beach for loading and off-loading.

The installation of a permanent 300 meter long access jetty would not only beprohibitively expensive but unnecessary. Furthermore, a jetty of this length wouldalso interfere with turtles gaining access to the islands southern beaches for eggdeposition.

5.6.4 Water Supply

Baguan Islands large sandy area of the southern portion holds a sizable source oflens ground water. This source should be carefully assessed for optimum, safewater-well placement so that seawater will not intrude as a result of over pumping /use.

In addition to the ground water source, rainwater can also be collected from thevarious infrastructure buildings and properly stored and filtered for human use.

5.6.5 Waste Water

Waste water from food preparation and human shower / toilets can be treated with aspecialized hydroponics application that discharges nutrient free, low E. coli bacteriafreshwater. Pretreatment is via HDPE septic tank system. The outfall septic water isthen collected into a separate HDPE chamber and treated with ozone. The laststage of treatment is through a special design series of HDPE tanks with plants andgravel to remove nutrients. This system is basically a modular approach of an

engineered subsurface flow wetland treatment system. As apposed to utilizing areed bed system, this hydroponic waster water treatment system (HTS) is able to be


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closely monitored for optimum nutrient removal and be able to adjust water flows andhydraulic retention time (HRT) with simple valve operations.

Lankayan Island in Sabah currently has an operational HTS system. Gayana Resortin Kota Kinabalu, Sabah has had a system operating successfully for its main on-the-sea platform restaurant and 30% of its over water chalets since 1998. It is currentlybeing modernized under new ownership.

Sipadan Island BKN and Sabah Parks are now assessing the HTS for a new facilityproposal.

Lankayan Island HTS in operation

5.6.6 Electrical Power

With the current state of the art available, the electrical power needs can be easilymanaged by a simple solar power system. Specialized batteries available are long-term use, deep cycle type that can last more than ten years if properly maintained.

Either a 12 or 24 volt solar power system will be utilized with a marine type inverter /charger unit that can provide 4.0 KW. This is adequate for a limited number of night-lights, communications, ceiling fans, and hatchery water pumping. No airconditioners will be used.

Refrigeration systems will operate on a special eutectic system that commercialfishing boats use. Utilizing a special fluid that holds temperature, the same is chilledvia 12V refrigerators only during solar operating hours. After sunset, the chillingsystem is shut down and the frozen fluid will provide temperature levels required forfood storage during the night.

Cooking systems will be fully operated with propane.

The solar applications are initially expensive but will save in operation costs in thelong run. As a battery charge back up, a small diesel generator can also beincorporated i.e. 10 KVA.


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A combination eco-dive tourist, giant clam hatchery, and coral reef rehabilitationfacility in the Republic of the Marshall Islands has been fully operational on such apower arrangement since 1994 Mili Wau Island. The same deep cycle batteriesare still in use under a 12-volt system - combo solar panel and wind generator unit.A small petrol generator is used only as a backup to assist battery amp-hourrecharge on cloudy, storm days.

A hybrid wind generator & solar Panel system will be recommended for use onBaguan Island.

5.6.7 Funding Startup & Ongoing

As in any business venture, commencement of investment action requires viable andforeseeable potential returns - in monetary dividends and/or other benefits. With theestablishment of the BEDP, there is a guaranteed monetary return as well asproviding a strategy to support a long-term protected area effort.

In an effort to operate and administer the BEDP with the long-term goal and aim ofachieving a high level of self-financing, various means and methods must beinstituted to generate funding. Tourism is that funding mechanism.

ECO-TOURISM SUPPORT OPERATIONS ANNUAL FUNDING EXAMPLE SUMMARY:

Given: 24 Guest Rooms/ 48 Pax Maximum Load per Day / Max Pax-NightsAt only 25 % Occupancy Rate - Average / Year [Seasonal Guided]:

Total Pax-Night / Year available: 4,380 [365 days X 25% X 48 persons]

Total Package Price Average: $P 5,915.00 [Per Pax/Night / $US 130.00 (45.5)]

Package includes:

- All transportation to/from Baguan Island to/from Sandakan- All meals and drinks [less alcohol & canned beverages]- Three dives per day & unlimited snorkeling / kayak use

- Cultural & Marine / Island Conservation Interpretive experiences

Conservation User Fees charged @ $P 400.00 per Person per Night [$US 8.80 ]

ANNUAL GROSS REVENUES for Conservation Programs: $P 1,752,000.00

Total Gross Revenues / Year: $P 25,908,000.00 [Based on 25 % Occupancy]Annual Operational & Depreciation @ 20%: $P 5,181,600.00 [Marine / Island setting]User Fees: $P 1,752,000.00 [for conservation programs]


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As noted above, the resort Per Pax Night fee of $P 400.00 per person, will help tosupport the BIMPACadministration as well as the various conservation programs.

Other Sources for Funding BIMPAC:

Paying Volunteer Program/s

MPP Marine Participation Program/s Adoption Resource Unit Program/s International & National Institutional Grants Private Sector Corporate Grants Low Impact Mariculture

5.6.8 Applied Business & Science Strategy

An in-house, propriety business plan will be based upon ecosystem restoration forthe purposes of participatory eco-nature tourism ventures. In turn, it will be thenature tourism generated moneys that will assist in the ongoing management and

support for the various missions of this Development Plan.

This plan shall comprise of various P&L statements for various income anddepreciation features of the eco-tourism and mariculture business operations.

66..00 BBEEDDPP PPRROOJJEECCTT SSCCOOPPEE MMaajjoorrSSuuppppoorrtt AAccttiivviittiieess

6.1 Activity One: Marine Invertebrate Hatchery System

In reference to Appendix D & E, Baguan Island poses as an ideal island site locationfor the establishment of a state of the art marine invertebrate hatchery. With pristine

sea water conditions existing around the islands shallow and deep reefs, and with noresident population establishments, a number of different types of marine culture canbe assessed. Herein below and in Appendix E, giant clams mariculture is addressedmore specifically as an example fauna to consider for Baguan Island BEDP.

Though a newly completed marine hatchery currently exists in the Province of TawiTawi, near Bongao, this is still not feasible to consider with regards to its distancefrom the Turtle Islands. A local hatchery facility is needed for supplying adependable and timely long term seed stock supply for grow out capabilities either forBEDP or its constituent and collaborative community livelihood enhancementprograms.


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Giant Clam [Tridacna]Restoration, Restocking, andSanctuary Inception

Presently, there are only eight [8]known specimens of live Tridacnagigas the true giant clam left inthe coastal waters of Sabah,

Malaysia. Two of these specimens are located at P. Lankayan.

This species is almost extinct in the Sulu Sea as a result of uncontrolled harvesting ofthis bivalve by local and foreign fishing boats. The harvesting of Tridacna clams hasbeen largely underway for the last 50 years; whereas, some island nations no longer

have sufficient numbers on their coral reefs to allow for natural repopulation and

replenishment.

This bivalve has been declared by CITES as an internationally protected marinespecies [Appendix II] that warrants permits for controlled transportation betweensignatory nations. Cultured Tridacna clams do not require CITES export permits ifthe country of origin certifies the mariculture facilities involved are legitimate.

Unfortunately, harvesting of this bivalve is still underway in both the Turtle Islandsand Sabahs coastal waters as well as throughout the entire region of South EastAsia.

Furthermore, no viable, production based hatcheries for these bivalves exist in

Sabah or even in the Philippines for that matter.

As part of the coral reef restoration program, a giant clam hatchery & nursery systemis proposed. The marine invertebrate hatchery will assist in the restocking of giantclams throughout the various reef habitats in the proposed marine sanctuary.

Key reefs will have secondary giant clam sanctuaries set up. With a large populationof cultured giant clams located at secondary reef habitat sanctuary sites, the chancesfor natural repopulation of nearby reefs is maximized for significant restoration withinten to fifteen years.

F2 generation brood stocks ofTridacna spp. would be mature at 8 to 10 years of age.Cohorts of 50 of these f2 brood stock shells would comprise secondary sanctuarieslocated at ecologically strategic coral reef habitats in the TIHPA region so as tonaturally re-seed further generations of this giant bivalve in the years ahead.

6.2 Activity Two: Hard Coral Nursery & Reef Restoration

Many coral reef conservation groups, both private sector NGOs and academicinstitutions, have often determined that some portions of a coral reef habitat slatedfor restoration must be given a jump start with nurtured coral transplants.

Adult coral transplants often exhibit high mortality after moving from one reef habitat

to another. Younger corals seem to survive better as they are actively adding more


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biomass per given period of growth time than the adults. Rapid growth allows forbetter acclimation to a new habitat setting.

A recent pilot coral farm project was completed by Inno Fisheries Sdn. Bhd., throughthe direct consultation of this BEDP proposer / author; 2006 to 2007.

6.3 Activity Three: Reef Monitoring & Survey Programs

In order to assess the overall condition and health of the coral reef habitats located inand around Baguan Island, an organized and well-documented marine biologicalsurvey must be conducted and as an update to the WWF survey completed yearsago.

Once a full survey is completed, an ongoing monitoring program is thereafterrequired to determine any species diversity and ecological changes in the same

surveyed areas.

Surveys will be conducted and followed according to methods prescribed in the AIMS Survey Manual for Tropical Marine Resourc es 2nd Edition.

Still camera, fixed mounted still camera, and video camera will be utilized to assist inthe evolution of comprehensive database information. PC graphic programs, such asScion Image will be used to analyze various survey images captured through eitherstill camera or video.

A computer based software program entitled ARMDES [AIMS Reef Monitoring DataEntry System] will be utilized to form a detailed biological characterization of thevarious reef habitats. Surveys will be undertaken for hard coral coverage


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characteristics, fish community, and water quality analysis for nutrients and otherdissolved constituents in the marine waters of the proposed marine sanctuary. Thissame data will be compiled, analyzed, and stored on CD disks for future referenceand correlations.

Documentation of coral spawning events, bleaching events, and Crown of Thorn seastar infestations will also be part of the coral reef monitoring program.

Daily weather and on-location environmental parameters will also be undertaken toform a long-term, historical database that can be eventually used to correlate futurecoral reef events such as spawning and bleaching.

6.4 Activity Four: Eco-Dive & Eco-Friendly Tourism

Without doubt, there is a need for manpower to undertake the above Activities within

the scope of this development plan associated with Baguan Island.

Eco-tourism has evolved to a state where there is a demand by tourists to not onlysee & photograph but to also participate and learn something about the region,ecosystem, and ethnic community there are visiting. They also desire to experiencethe atmosphere and thrill of sharing nature discoveries with friends and family whenthey return home.

Coinciding with this development plan is a proposed low impact, eco friendly diveresort. Not only will this facility provide shelter and sustenance for internationalvisitors but will also provide shared infrastructures and operation equipment requiredfor the other Activities described herein this BEDP. Please refer to Appendix G.

This activity also represents the means to financially support this over alldevelopment plan through tourist related income and benefits.

Carefully planned facilities will be supported via eco friendly systems for fresh watersource, wastewater treatment, and space available on the island itself withminimum land and vegetation alterations.

The key word with eco-friendly marine nature tourism is sustainability, whereas, themaximum number of guest rooms is critical for sustaining the islands ecosystems.Sustainability also goes hand in hand with low impact affection of the surroundingecosystems be it marine habitats or island terrestrial habitats.

Certainly it would be ideal to have the region devoid of any human affection, noinfrastructures, no fishing boat traffic, and no land origin water borne pesticides,herbicides and fertilizers. But this is not an ideal world and the premise ofProtection throughPresence, with ecological sound ecotourism practices, is evermore so important with regards to conserving, monitoring, and restoring the Baguan

coral reef ecosystems gravelyaffected for many years.


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77..00 MMAAN