Over 100 participants from the Philippine Department of Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau who work at MPAs in several Philippine regions attended the training. Ten Philippine Coast Guard officers also attended, both as trainees and instructors-in-training. The training included a train-the-trainer component whereby mentors learn in such a way that they are able to train others on the topics covered.

The training focused on conducting oiled shoreline assessment surveys, developing and using Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) maps and data, and other environmental spill response topics. Response considerations emphasized sensitive natural resources in the region, including mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. Subjects covered included NOAA models and tools, field guides, and other response resources. The participatory hands-on workshop included exercises and a field trip related to the scientific lecture topics.

These trainings concluded a total of three courses conducted in different regions of the Philippines.

The USAID-NOAA Mission Partnership, an element of which focuses on coastal management supporting the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) MPA Capacity Building Program, sponsored the training. The NIPAS Act of 1992 is a Philippine law that establishes and manages protected areas. The Act’s goals are to maintain biodiversity, ensure sustainable resource use, and create individual plans for each protected area.