Lee stressed that harnessing the blue economy will “maximize the economic contributions of our seas while ensuring its responsible development to preserve it for future generations.”
The lawmaker pointed out that the country, located in the Coral Triangle, is a biodiversity hotspot that “is neglected as human activities such as overexploitation, pollution, and climate change have damaged the country’s coral reefs, mangrove forests, and endangered species. Lee explained that through HB 8893, the government must adopt a blue economy framework for the sustainable development and safe use of marine wealth within the country’s maritime zones; exercise stewardship of the seas and coasts, protect and conserve marine and coastal ecosystems and habitats, preserve the maritime heritage, and foster international cooperation; and ensure a whole-of-nation approach to the stewardship of the seas and coasts.