Parker Shane Manalaysay Champions Ocean Conservation at High Seas Events in Metro Manila

Metro Manila, Philippines - Our very own Parker Shane Manalaysay, Programs and Events Head of Mangrove Matters PH (MMPH), has been making waves in Metro Manila's ocean conservation scene as a Youth Ambassador of the High Seas Alliance (HSA). This week, Parker participated in two significant events that highlighted the urgent need for ocean protection and the ratification of the groundbreaking High Seas Treaty.

Special Screening and Panel Discussion at UP Diliman

On Monday, May 26, 2025, Parker joined an elite panel discussion following the exclusive, one-time-only cinema screening of "Ocean with David Attenborough" at the University of the Philippines GT-Toyota Asian Center Auditorium in Diliman, Quezon City. This special event was organized by the High Seas Alliance, Planet CORA (Communities Organized for Resource Allocation), Oceana, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The screening and discussion were strategically timed to coincide with the national celebration of the Month of the Ocean and to build momentum ahead of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference scheduled for Nice, France in June. The event brought together key figures and organizations united in their commitment to ocean conservation, sustainable governance, and the swift ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ/High seas) Treaty.

Parker shared the panel with distinguished experts and advocates, including:

• Planet CORA founder and United Nations Environment Programme Goodwill Ambassador Antoinette Taus (moderator)

• DENR Bureau of Biodiversity Management's John Erick Avelino

• Oceana's Marine Protected Area campaign lead Nikka Oquias

• Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines executive director Dr. AA Yaptinchay

• Asian Center for Biodiversity information management director Dr. Sheila Vergaga

• Q-quatics research associate Emily Capuli

  
  

As the youngest voice on the panel, Parker delivered a compelling speech that highlighted the evolution of youth involvement in ocean conservation. He emphasized how today's young advocates have transformed from passive participants to proactive co-creators of solutions, taking on dynamic roles as researchers, policy advocates, and ocean entrepreneurs.

Parker shared his own journey as an example, discussing his recent study on enhancing fish larvae identification for marine biodiversity monitoring using artificial intelligence. "We are tech-savvy," he explained, "and we can see young people using social media as platforms for awareness and even going beyond by creating AI systems for marine conservation. This demonstrates how youth have the potential to maximize technological tools to solve fundamental challenges in marine science."

He also highlighted MMPH's collaborative success with DENR, Oceana, and other youth organizations in pushing for the passage of 11 proposed protected landscape and seascape areas in the Senate, which achieved final reading in January 2025. "This really emphasizes the idea that if we give the youth the chance to represent issues surrounding the ocean, they can go a long way and be of great help," Parker noted.

His speech underscored the urgency of High Seas Treaty ratification, explaining how these international waters regulate climate, harbor incredible biodiversity, and serve as sources for local fish populations. Parker made a direct appeal to the audience: "I'm asking everyone here today to contact your senators. Tell them that ratifying the High Seas Treaty isn't just about environmental protection—it's about securing the Philippines' maritime future; the future of our kids; the future of our grandkids; and the future of generations to come."

Legislative Forum on High Seas Treaty

Two days later, on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, Parker attended the Legislative Forum on the High Seas Treaty: Strengthening the Philippines' Leadership in Ocean Protection at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City. This high-level forum featured French Ambassador to Manila Marie Fontanel as the keynote speaker.

Ambassador Fontanel used the platform to express hope that the Philippines would be among the first 60 states to ratify the landmark Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement, also known as the UN High Seas Treaty. Her keynote message underscored the international community's expectations for the Philippines to take a leadership role in ocean protection through swift treaty ratification.

Why This Matters for Mangrove Matters PH

While Parker attended these events in his capacity as a High Seas Youth Ambassador, his participation reflects the interconnected nature of marine ecosystem protection. The High Seas Treaty addresses biodiversity conservation in areas beyond national jurisdiction—the vast ocean spaces that belong to all humanity. These waters are intrinsically connected to coastal ecosystems, including the mangrove forests that MMPH works tirelessly to protect and restore.

Parker's advocacy for high seas protection complements our organization's mission by addressing the broader marine ecosystem that mangroves are part of. Healthy oceans support healthy coastal environments, and the protection of both requires coordinated action from local communities to international bodies.

A Voice for Filipino Youth

Through these events, Parker has demonstrated the power of youth leadership in environmental advocacy. His presence on panels alongside seasoned experts and government officials shows that young Filipinos are not just the future of ocean conservation—they are active participants in shaping policy and driving change today.

As MMPH's Programs and Events Head, Parker brings this same passion and expertise to our mangrove conservation efforts. His dual role as both a member of our team and a youth ambassador for high seas protection exemplifies the kind of comprehensive environmental leadership our country needs.

#HighSeasTreaty

#RaceForRatification