Surigao del Norte—A Network Effectiveness Assessment Tool (NEAT) Workshop for the Hinatuan Passage Development Alliance (HIPADA) was conducted at Parkway Hotel in Surigao City on May 7, 2026, to assess alliance governance and conservation efforts.
MERF implemented the workshop as part of the Partnerships for the Philippine National Marine 30×30 Target project.
Despite weather disruptions and communication challenges that delayed the activity, participants convened to review the status of coastal management systems among member municipalities.
Discussions clarified that the HIPADA with Executive Director Greggo Uriarte (Operations Management Office) is working closely with the DENR-CENRO Tubod in the management and strengthening of the MPAs located within the alliance by forming an MPA network (MPAN). Participants also highlighted ongoing alliance planning, existing operational manuals, and continued collaboration supported by partner organizations and NGOs.
Among the notable discussions was the reported presence of a suspected Philippine Eagle within the MPA area. According to participants, residents familiar with Mt. Apo’s eagle populations identified similarities with the species, although confirmation from authorities is still pending.
The workshop also highlighted HIPADA’s sustained efforts in coastal resource management through regular meetings, harmonized fisheries ordinances, IEC campaigns, and capacity-building activities for Bantay Dagat and Technical Advisory Group (TAG) members.
Despite financial and operational challenges experienced during the COVID pandemic and leadership transitions, alliance activities resumed with continued support from organizations such as SEDMFI through the ELCReP project; CORDAID, and JOHANNITER. HIPADA is the main recipient of many of the projects of SEDFMI, according to the participants.
Participants further noted improvements in fisheries resources and reduced illegal fishing activities attributed to strengthened law enforcement, close season implementation, and alliance-based management efforts. Moving forward, HIPADA plans to expand ridge-to-reef conservation initiatives in partnership with DENR and participating municipalities.
By Genea Rupert Claire (GRC)
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Photos| GRC, Jethro Carlo Quijano
