MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) launched “The Wonderful West Philippine Sea,” its first three-part children’s e-book series aimed at fostering marine conservation and environmental awareness among young Filipinos.
The series was unveiled on Tuesday as part of the 10th anniversary commemoration of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award.
READ: PH gov’t launches comic book on West PH Sea
Moreover, it forms part of the DENR’s efforts to make marine science, environmental stewardship, and environmental education more accessible to children.The e-book series was launched at the symposium “Science-to-Stewardship-to-Sovereignty: A Decade of Marine Scientific Research in the West Philippine Sea.”
“By meeting Pawi, children learn that protecting the West Philippine Sea also means protecting our food security, livelihoods, biodiversity, and shared heritage,” said Environment Secretary Cuna.
“We also want them to understand, in simple terms, why the 2016 Arbitral Award matters for our nation and our seas,” added Cuna.
Its first title, “The Wonderful West Philippine Sea with Pawi the Sea Turtle (Pawikan),” follows Pawi, a green sea turtle, through mangroves, seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and coastal communities.
Designed for children aged six to nine, the illustrated e-book introduces readers to marine species such as whale sharks, giant clams, and reef fishes.
The book also highlights the roles of scientists, sustainable fishers, community volunteers, and coast guards in marine conservation.
Furthermore, the book explains, in age-appropriate language, how pollution, overfishing, and habitat loss threaten marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods.
“Through The Wonderful West Philippine Sea, we hope to inspire children to appreciate this sea that has long sustained Filipino families, recognize it as an important part of our natural heritage,” Cuna said.
Cuna said the book will give children an understanding of the “shared responsibility to protect its rich marine biodiversity for present and future generations.”
The e-book includes interactive features such as species-spotting activities and colouring pages.
It also includes a family pledge that encourages environmentally responsible practices, including reducing single-use plastics, proper waste disposal, conserving water, and participating in community clean-up drives.
Two additional titles are scheduled for release over the next two months.
The second, due in August, follows Maria and her grandfather as they share stories about the West Philippine Sea and its significance to the country’s natural heritage.
The final book will be launched in September in time for International Coastal Cleanup Day.
The series is available for free download through the DENR website, while printed copies will be distributed to coastal schools, barangay halls, and partner organizations.
Educators and community leaders may also request copies or organize storytelling sessions through the DENR Strategic Communication and Initiatives Service.
The public can access the e-book series through this link: https://tinyurl.com/thewonderfulwestphilsea. /jpv
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