The municipality of Looc is located at the southern part of Tablas Island, the biggest island province of Romblon. Looc, which literally means “cove,” is a fourth class municipality composed of approximately 21,000 residents distributed among 12 barangays. The cove encloses 23 square kilometers of municipal waters, making this the major fishing ground of the municipality, providing livelihood to some 1,000 households out of the town’s 3,900 households. Early on, fish catch in Looc Bay was very abundant, boasting of diversified marine species. However, during the early 1990’s, rampant illegal and destructive methods of fishing led to the depletion of Looc’s Bay’s productivity at an alarming rate.

      Consequently, as early as 1995, Coastal Resource Management (CRM) activities in Looc were initiated by the local leaders. Major components of the CRM included community organizing, massive IEC (?), and rehabilitation of the marine resources through mangrove reforestation and creation of a fish sanctuary. A strong partnership among the LGU, local NGOs and people’s organizations were also established. Additionally, volunteers were recruited to join the Bantay Dagat.

      The program brought remarkable improvements to the municipality of Looc. Because of the commitment of the fifty-two Bantay Dagat volunteers, they have effectively eradicated destructive and illegal methods of fishing in Looc Bay. Fish catch increased, as well as other aquatic resources such a shellfish. The program also helped increase environmental awareness among the people, with the inclusion of environment care and marine resources conservation in the elementary school curriculum. This heightened awareness also allowed the local folks to decide for themselves and oppose projects that would adversely affect their environment in the long-term.

      Even displaced fisherfolks were given priority by the program through the introduction of alternative livelihood programs. The LGU provided assistance and loans to its constituents for fish processing, poultry raising, purchase of rice thresher and blower, seaweed and vegetable production, and handicraft making. Indeed, the success of the program has been felt by the entire society.