Scuba divers launch ‘Adopt-a-Clam’ project

The Unilever SEALS (scuba divers for environmental care, adventure and balanced life in the seas) launched what it calls "Adopt-a-Clam" project at the Dive ’N Trek Resort Marine Sanctuary in San Luis, Batangas.

The project seeks to preserve giant clams whose population has been greatly reduced due to poaching. An endeavor called "7,000 clams for the 7,000 islands" was envisioned by Louie and Chen Mencias, an avid diving couple who recognized the need to do something to prevent the rapid depletion of the supply of giant clams.

Marine Ecosystem Council, Inc. (MEC) agreed to be a partner of Unilever in this project whose purpose is to introduce 7,000 clams to the 7,000 islands of the country, with the clams being supplied by the UP Marine Science Institute. As of today, 2,500 cultured clams have been introduced in marine sanctuaries in Batangas, Norther Zamboanga and Zambales.

Ten buddy pairs carried out the relocation of the 25 to 30-centimeter giant clams from two points in Balayan Bay, the body of water that Dive ’N Trek Resort overlooks.

The Unilever SEALS is a group composed of diving enthusiasts from Unilever Philippines, Selecta Wall’s and Unilever Bestfoods (CMC).