The DENR hosted the 2^nd Signatory State Meeting of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation and Management of the Dugongs and their Habitats throughout their Range (Dugong MOU) on 19-20 February 2013 at the Best Western Premier F1 Hotel in Global City, Taguig. Twenty six (26) countries attended the 2-day meeting, including 17 signatory states ranging from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. Four range states – Bangladesh, Egypt, Somalia and Sudan – signed the Dugong MOU bringing the total signatories to 25, out of the 48 dugong range states.

The Meeting discussed priorities in conserving dugongs. The Meeting was honored by the presence of DENR Undersecretary Ernesto Adobo, Jr. who delivered the keynote address in behalf of Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje. The Philippines, through Director Theresa Mundita S. Lim of the DENR-Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau, chaired the Meeting. The Bureau spearheads and coordinates dugong conservation and protection activities in the Philippines. (Photo courtesy of Emie T. Ramoso)