MANILA: Famed for its stunning beaches, the Philippines faces a stark reality as it plunges to 214th out of 220 in the latest Ocean Health Index (OHI), signalling a decline in marine ecosystem health.

The archipelago’s diverse waters, home to the world’s richest marine biodiversity, have long been a paradise for divers and environmentalists.

However, overfishing, pollution, and climate change are increasingly threatening these vibrant marine habitats, jeopardising not only local livelihood sources but also global environmental health.

The decline in the Philippines’ ocean health was highlighted in the 2023 Ocean Health Index (OHI) scores, which placed the country at 214 out of 220 nations, with an overall score of 58 out of 100—significantly below the global average of 73.

According to the OHI’s website, the index “measures how well ocean systems are sustainably providing people with the benefits and services they need and desire from marine systems.”

Despite a slight improvement from its lowest score of 56 in 2021, the Philippines’ latest result marks a substantial decline from scores of 67 in 2021 and 65 in 2020. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN