Benitez pushes for dev’t of ‘blue economy’

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Negros Occidental Rep. Kiko Benitez has urged the Marcos administration to prioritize programs that promote a “blue economy” in the interest of national economic security.
It is crucial to maximize the economic and social benefits of maritime industries, which include fisheries, shipping and tourism, Benitez said in a statement.
According to him, maritime domains of the country compose 88 percent of its territory, and 60 percent of Filipinos live in coastal communities. (https://bit.ly/3XcNj5I)
This requires strong commitment and action from concerned government agencies, the Negrense solon said during the initial deliberation of his House Bill No. 69.
“The Philippines is already a powerhouse maritime economy, given our geography, history and culture, but who benefits from the blessings of the seas?” Benitez asked.
Blue economy is a framework for sustainable development of marine and coastal resources, based on principles of stewardship and social responsibility, Benitez said, as he stressed the to regulate maritime activities to mitigate impact to the environment.