Resort, not theme park, planned in Palawan

MANILA, Philippines - An official of resort developer Coral World Park Undersea Resorts Inc. clarified yesterday that the firm would not build a huge underwater theme park in Coron, Palawan.

Susan Lee, marketing and communications director of Coral World Park (CWP), said, “There has never been any form of communication from our side mentioning a theme park. Our plan is to build a resort and attraction, of which we are designing it as an undersea attraction with an ocean conservation focus.”

“There will be no theme park development in Palawan,” she added.

CWP noted that the “undersea-themed” park is land-based but is designed to meet the international standards required as a global destination, especially environment-related standards advocating conservation tourism, renewable energy and Category 5-proof architecture.

The developer also slammed news wire agency Agence France Presse, saying it did not clearly reflect the full details of the announcement of Coral World Park and Nickelodeon-owner Viacom International Media Networks.

After the announcement, several online petitions against the plan were launched by various environmental groups.

Palawan is home to more than 300 coral species or about half of all coral species in the world, as well as breeding ground of more than 1,500 fish species in the country.

CWP also clarified reports that a full 400 hectares are to be developed under water, saying this is inaccurate.

The firm pointed out that “only 100 hectares have been allocated for the Nickelodeon facility and up to 30 hectares is allocated for the attraction itself and not 400 hectares as indicated in earlier reports. And that this has not been finalized yet,” Lee said.

“The only infrastructure to be built in the water is floating, and all developments are on land. The undersea themed Coral World Park project is land based but is designed to meet international standards required as a global destination,” read the CWP statement.

“The facility will be built on a private property and will be undergoing all the necessary approvals from government before construction starts. The Coral World Park owns eight global brands for the Philippines and all partners advocate ocean protection. This project is five years in the making and is being coordinated with the concerned officials of the Philippine government,” she added.

The Coral World Park is funded by the Monaco-based Dr. AB Moñozca Foundation and its CWP Trust, which advocates ocean protection.

“Within the parameters set by our founders, we have our own strict adherence to the environment. We aim to create a large-scale reef conservation program that is sustainable, together with sanctuaries for key species in the area. These are part of our blue-print besides the job creation opportunities. We aim to work with as many advocates as possible to create a world-class destination for tourism with an undersea theme.”

She said that the CWP project will not only create jobs for locals, but will also provide the necessary funding to ensure protection of the area.

“The project will enable ongoing public education on ocean protection. CWP’s location is situated where there are other existing hospitality developments around it,” Lee said.

She explained that when completed, CWP will be the largest coral reef conservation program in Asia providing the largest marine sanctuary for five key species – dolphins, sea cows, sea horses, turtles and whale sharks.

With focus on philanthropy and ocean protection, CWP is about identifying the right projects that will create the right impact so as to ensure long-term conservation of a place like Palawan, the CWP said.

CWP and Viacom International Media

Networks – owner of Nickelodeon – share a vision and commitment to make a positive impact on kids and families to help educate them on ocean conservation, while they enjoy a Nickelodeon entertainment experience.

Environment Secretary Gina Lopez will oppose the project if it would cause the destruction of corals. With Louise Maureen Simeon