A team of marine conservationist declared in 2006 that the Philippines is the Center of Marine Biodiversity in the world and Verde Island Passages as the "Center of the Center of Marine Shorefish Biodiversity".
Many threatened species which include sea turtles like hawksbills, olive ridleys, and green turtles; humphead wrasses, giant groupers and giant clams are present in the Verde Island Passage. However, there are no enforcement of ordinances and over-fishing is common. A short-lived 'park fee' scheme for the Verde Island drop-off dive site was soon dropped when it was discovered that the revenue was being used to buy better fishing gear and hence removing fish at a higher rate. Humphead wrasses are especially threatened and divers often go years without spotting a single individual. It was particularly noted the rare red fin wrasse (Cirrhilabrus rubripinnis) thrives in Verde Island.
The area has more than 300 species of corals, which is considered one of the largest concentrations of corals in the country or even in the whole world. Coral health is generally good, though the effects of global warming and increased pollution, may still lead to drop in diversity. The Verde Island passage is located next to Batangas Bay which is rapidly becoming a major refining and petrol chemical center in the Philippines. Until now, no infrastructure is in place to contain a major oil, or chemical spill.
President Corazon Cory Aquino
Her real name is Maria Corazon "Cory" Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino. She was born on January 25, 1933 and died on August 1, 2009. Corazon Aquino also known as Tita Cory was the 11th President of the Philippines. She served the Philippines from 1986 to 1992. President Corazon "Tita Cory" Aquino was the first female president of the Philippines and was Asia's first female president.
Tita Cory is a self-proclaimed "plain housewife" married to Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. (1932–1983) who was a leading figure in the political opposition against the autocratic rule of President Ferdinand Marcos.
President Corazon "Cory" Aquino was installed as President by the peaceful 1986 People Power Revolution.
Tita Cory died on August 1, 2009 after suffering from colon cancer.
Tita Cory is a self-proclaimed "plain housewife" married to Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. (1932–1983) who was a leading figure in the political opposition against the autocratic rule of President Ferdinand Marcos.
President Corazon "Cory" Aquino was installed as President by the peaceful 1986 People Power Revolution.
Tita Cory died on August 1, 2009 after suffering from colon cancer.