Ditangol Marine Sanctuary
Ditangol Marine Sanctuary is a vital marine protected area nestled along the eastern seaboard of Aurora, Philippines, playing a quiet but powerful role in safeguarding the province’s rich coastal ecosystems. Recognized in the Coral Triangle Atlas as MPA ID 4028900, the sanctuary lies within one of the most biologically diverse marine regions in the world—an area often called the global epicenter of marine life.
Located off the coast of Dinalungan, Aurora, Ditangol Marine Sanctuary forms part of the municipality’s broader commitment to marine conservation and sustainable fisheries. Its strategic position along the Pacific coastline places it at the frontline of protection for coral reefs, reef fish, and other marine organisms that thrive in Aurora’s nutrient-rich waters.
Designated as a no-take zone, the sanctuary helps restore fish populations, protect coral habitats, and strengthen ecosystem resilience against threats such as overfishing and climate change. By allowing marine life to recover and flourish undisturbed, Ditangol supports not only biodiversity but also the long-term livelihoods of nearby coastal communities that depend on healthy seas.
Managed in coordination with local government units and supported by conservation initiatives of DENR Region III, Ditangol Marine Sanctuary stands as a testament to community-driven environmental stewardship. It represents Aurora’s enduring balance between nature and people — where protection today helps ensure abundance, beauty, and food security for generations to come.