The Verde Island Passage in the Philippines is the most biodiverse marine habitat on Earth, often called the Amazon of the ocean. In February 2026, I traveled here with a team of scientists and educators to learn about the work of protecting it through an artist's eyes.
The Bantay Dagat, sea guardians and local volunteers who protect the Verde Island Passage. Assisting us before our dive. Philippines. February 2026.
The research team and Bantay Dagat before our dive. Verde Island Passage, Philippines. February 2026.
Our team documenting the angelfish count. Verde Island Passage, Philippines. February 2026.
Traveling by boat through the Lagadlarin Mangrove Conservation Forest, home to more than 30 mangrove species. Lobo, Batangas, Philippines. February 2026.
Learning about the mangroves and the role they play in coastal health. Lagadlarin, Lobo, Batangas, Philippines. February 2026
Mangrove saplings we planted, part of the ongoing restoration here. Lobo, Batangas, Philippines. February 2026.
With Christopher Bautista, Aquaculturist of the Local Government of Batangas, and his family, who shared their research and the community's work protecting these waters. Lobo, Batangas, Philippines. February 2026.
On the water with Christopher Bautista, Aquaculturist, visiting the oyster farm he built, one of the ways this community makes its living from the sea. Lobo, Batangas, Philippines. February 2026.
Giving back to the waters we came to study, a shoreline cleanup with the team. Verde Island Passage, Philippines. February 2026.
Giving back to the community that welcomed us graciously, giving a bamboo house a new coat of varnish. Lobo, Batangas, Philippines. February 2026
With the children of Lobo, Batangas, whose families work to protect these waters. Verde Island Passage, Philippines. February 2026.
Photography by ABS-CBN Foundation International.