Every September, the Philippines celebrates Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo), a nationwide observance that highlights the country’s deep connection to its marine and archipelagic identity. Proclaimed by Presidential Proclamation No. 316, signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017, this event aims to foster greater awareness of the Philippines’ maritime and archipelagic status, as well as the need to protect and sustainably manage its vast marine resources.

The Importance of MANA Mo

As an archipelago with over 7,600 islands, the Philippines is intrinsically linked to the seas that surround it. Its maritime territory is almost seven times larger than its land area, encompassing diverse ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, which support a vast array of marine life. The country’s marine biodiversity is among the richest in the world, making it a critical part of the Coral Triangle, often dubbed the “Amazon of the Seas.”

The seas not only provide food and livelihood for millions of Filipinos but also serve as avenues for transportation, commerce, and cultural exchange. Recognizing this, MANA Mo seeks to remind Filipinos of their collective responsibility to safeguard the maritime domain for future generations.

Objectives of MANA Mo

MANA Mo promotes awareness of various maritime issues, ranging from environmental protection to national security, sustainable fisheries, and the role of the sea in Filipino history and culture. The objectives of this celebration include:

  1. Environmental Conservation: Raising awareness of the importance of marine conservation and protecting the country’s marine biodiversity.
  2. Sustainable Development: Encouraging the sustainable use of maritime resources to ensure economic prosperity and food security.
  3. National Security: Highlighting the significance of maritime security and the protection of the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) against illegal fishing and other forms of exploitation.
  4. Cultural Heritage: Recognizing the historical and cultural significance of the seas, which have shaped the lives of Filipinos for centuries.