ABOUT US
Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB)
The Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) is a specialized agency under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the Philippines, responsible for conserving, protecting, and sustainably managing the country's biodiversity and natural resources. Its mandate includes overseeing the establishment and management of protected areas, implementing policies for biodiversity conservation, and regulating wildlife trade and protection under RA 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act). It also leads initiatives such as the Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Program (CMEMP) under DAO 2016-26, which focuses on marine biodiversity protection, coral reef rehabilitation, and mangrove reforestation, while engaging local communities in sustainable resource management.
The BMB also formulates policies and conducts research to support biodiversity conservation while ensuring the country's compliance with international agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), and the Ramsar Convention. Through major programs like the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Program, National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), and Biodiversity-Friendly Enterprises (BDFE) Program, the bureau promotes sustainable management of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, enhances biodiversity-friendly livelihoods, and strengthens conservation efforts in partnership with local communities and stakeholders.
Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Program (CMEMP)
CMEMP under the DAO 2016-26, is a national program for the conservation, protection, rehabilitation, and sustainable management of coastal and marine ecosystems in the Philippines
It aims to enhance marine biodiversity conservation, improve ecological integrity, and promote ecosystem-based approaches to climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction. The order strengthens the management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS Act, RA 11038) and supports sustainable livelihood through Biodiversity-Friendly Enterprises (BDFEs) for coastal communities. It also emphasizes habitat and ecosystem restoration, such as mangrove reforestation and coral reef rehabilitation, while engaging local government units (LGUs), fisherfolk, indigenous communities, and non-government organizations (NGOs) in conservation efforts. Additionally, it reinforces marine law enforcement and promotes knowledge management for effective biodiversity conservation.
SEVEN (7) COMPONENTS
Component Under the CMEMP
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Networking
This component focuses on the establishment, management, and networking of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to conserve marine biodiversity and ecosystem services. It includes the protection and rehabilitation of key habitats such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, as well as water quality monitoring to ensure ecosystem health.
Technical Assistance
CMEMP provides technical guidance and support to local government units (LGUs), communities, and stakeholders on the implementation of coastal and marine management strategies. This includes habitat assessments, ecosystem restoration planning, and policy development to enhance local conservation efforts.
Knowledge Management
This involves data collection, research, and information dissemination to improve decision-making in coastal and marine conservation. It includes scientific assessments of marine ecosystems, documentation of best practices, and policy development based on research findings.
Social Marketing and Mobilization
This component raises public awareness and participation in marine conservation through campaigns, outreach programs, and educational initiatives. It promotes behavioral change, sustainable practices, and community involvement in conservation efforts.
Capacity Building
The National Integrated MPA Capacity Building Program (NIMCAP) is one of the initiatives under this component that enhances the skills and knowledge of local stakeholders, including LGUs, community organizations, and enforcement agencies, to effectively manage MPAs and other coastal conservation programs. Training workshops, policy orientations, and technical courses are conducted to improve conservation management and governance.
Biodiversity-Friendly Enterprises (BDFE)
This promotes sustainable livelihoods that support biodiversity conservation, providing alternative income sources for coastal communities while reducing dependence on destructive activities such as overfishing and illegal resource extraction. Examples include eco-tourism, sustainable fishing, and handicraft production using non-destructive natural materials.
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
Regular assessment and monitoring are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of conservation initiatives under CMEMP. This includes tracking habitat conditions, species populations, water quality, and the socio-economic impact of conservation efforts to ensure adaptive and science-based management.
RA NO. 11995
Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System (PENCAS) Act
RA NO. 12064
Philippine Maritime Zones Act
RA NO. 12065
Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act