Celebrate the Sea Month and "Celebrate the Sea" Day

May 13, 2008

PROCLAMATION NO. 1512

PROCLAIMING THE MONTH OF JUNE 2008 AND EVERY YEAR THEREAFTER AS "CELEBRATE THE SEA" MONTH, AND THE SECOND SATURDAY OF JUNE AS "CELEBRATE THE SEA" DAY

WHEREAS, the Philippines abounds with majestic bodies of waters, consisting of the seas which surround the whole Philippine archipelago, as well as those found within our 7,107 radiant islands;

WHEREAS, in these bodies of water may be found one of the world's greatest marine biodiversity where aquatic species reside and survive;

WHEREAS, these natural gifts of wonder have brought recognition to the Philippines in 2007, when we hosted the "Celebrate the Sea Marine Imagery Festival" at the Coconut Palace Complex, Pasay City, which event was participated by 38 countries, who were all amazed at the beauty of our rich marine natural resources; AEcTCD

WHEREAS, it is but fitting that greater awareness and consciousness of our seas should be ingrained in our mind as part of our pride and heritage by setting aside a period within the year to be observed with appropriate activities, where their importance to our lives and existence as a nation will be highlighted.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby proclaim the whole month of June 2008, and every year thereafter, as "Celebrate the Sea" month, declare the 2nd Saturday of June as "Celebrate the Sea" Day, and designate the whale shark (Butanding) as the icon for marine protection and conservation.

The Department of Tourism, together with the Philippine Commission on the Development of Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD), all government agencies and instrumentalities, as well as the private sector in the tourism and diving industry are hereby directed to observe said period through the undertaking of appropriate activities.

All Filipinos are enjoined to participate in these activities for a more successful conduct of the celebration.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 13th day of May, in the year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Eight.