It’s the last quarter of the year and we’re diving in Burdeos in the Polillo Group of Islands in Quezon province as part of the Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) Coral Project.

The project centered at the town of Burdeos aims to provide detailed information of three of the EDGE Coral species, namely, the elegance coral (Catalaphyllia jardinei), the bubble coral (Physogyra lichtensteini) and the mushroom coral (Heliofungia actiniformis). It will also determine the direct and indirect threats to coral reefs and improve on existing management plans from the community and local government to increase awareness in coral reef and biodiversity conservation.

Surprisingly, during this time of the year, the sea was calm and the weather was very pleasant. Upon arrival in Burdeos, we immediately transferred the dive compressor, seven tanks, gear crates, camera equipment, and bags from the boat to get ready for a 45-minute tricycle ride to town. We went on informing the local government officials and staff about the activity, the EDGE objectives and the duration.

Every morning between 7:30 and 8:30, we braced ourselves for a tricycle ride with our gears, and travel from Poblacion to the Sabang pier. We would take photos and videos on the condition of the reefs; took note of damages and threats like anchor damage, blast and cyanide fishing; and confirmed the presence and existence of the EDGE coral species in Burdeos Island.