Greetings from Dumaguete

It's been an amazing year so far, it's hard to believe 2014 is already here! We have been in the Philippines for 6 months now, having a wonderful time, and can't wait to see what this next year brings. We were able to go on our first vacation with other Peace Corps volunteers since being here. We spent two days snorkeling off of Apo Island and Siquijor Island. Some of the best corals can be found here along with sea turtles, colorful fish and Nemo!! Everything was absolutely breathtaking from the white beaches to the the rocky cliffs of the islands. Lauren was stung on the lips by a jellyfish and it made her mas Jolie'esque.

We have also spent some time in Dumaguete city, an international hub. We have found an Italian restaurant that has real cheese!! Lauren is in heaven to say the least. The city is by the ocean with a stunning view on the nearby mountains. For new years eve we spent it on a roof top with fireworks going off all around us. What a great way to end one year and begin another. It's been a great vacation!!

We wish everyone a happy new year and all the best in the new year.

Fish Homes

We were able to go out last week and watch new fish homes be deployed in our MPA (Marine Protected Area).  These were built in the mangroves and were taken out by raft (it took over an hour to get out there).  These 'homes' are made out of bamboo with Nipa fawns added to the top.  Fish like to congregate in these for safety.  The goal is to have fish move into the MPA and have a safe place to be able to reach full size.  So many fish are taken out of the ocean not in a mature state.  MPA's are no fish areas and have heaving fines/jail time for fishing inside them.

Part of what Lauren is trying to teach the fisherfolk is the importance of leaving the younger fish in the ocean in order for them to be able to grow to full size.  It's a difficult task as most are fishing to eat for the day and/or are selling in the market to support their family for that one day.  Putting anything back into the ocean decreases income but in the long run does so much more harm.  For without adult fish, spawning starts to infinitely decrease leading to less fish in general for the future.