Apo Eco Island
Apo Island in Negros, south of Philippines, is a volcano forming island.
Apo Island is rich in submarine corals, schools of fish and sea turtles which attract divers from all over the world. David, who comes from England, was one of them. He settled down in Apo, donated all his income to the local school and now works as a dive instructor.
The underwater environment in Apo Island was once a desert due to extensive over fishing. Thanks to the islanders, who realized the mistakes, they initiated environmental protection policies and practices.
Apo island has been protected well since. Villagers organised by Liberty Resort clean the beaches regularly, put nets on top of corals before typhoon season, and guard the marine reserve.
Liberty Resort was set up by Liberty and her parents who were the chairman and chairwoman of Apo Island. They are also the main instigators who persuaded all islanders to sign a contract to build the Apo Marine Reserve and stop extensive fishing.
Due to the financial support of Liberty Resort, Apo Island villagers have built their own middle school, primary school, kindergarten, a small medical centre and a church.
People on the island have sparkling smiles. I asked children there what were their dream in future was, they said they wanted to “help people, to protect the environment” …
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