House Joint Resolution 8-42-8, otherwise known as a “Joint Resolution to Support the Establishment of a Marine Mammal Sanctuary in Palau”, was adopted unanimously in that august body on Tuesday.
“The establishment of the sanctuary here is a very laudable move that can help preserve threatened and endangered marine mammal species,” said Delegate Marhence Madrangchar.
“By adopting such resolution, we wanted to show to the people our support and commitment to helping conserve and preserve these marine creatures, “he added.
The resolution noted the dramatic decrease in the population of marine mammals in the Pacific Islands region. The decline has been attributed to whaling and overhunting.
The resolution pointed out that dozens of species of marine mammals are in need of protection. Among the marine mammals that could be found in Palau are dugongs, sperm whales and as many as 30 other species of whales and dolphins.
Palau imposes harsh penalties on those who harm or kill dugongs.
Under Palauan law, there is a fine of $5, 000 to $20, 000 for killing a dugong, which is critically endangered. The dugong population in Palau is estimated to be only around 200.
But the protection for dugongs does not extend to other marine mammals that pass through the Palau EEZ.
“The putting up of the sanctuary will protect not only the dugong but the other marine mammals, as well,” Madrangchar pointed out.
The resolution explains that marine mammal species play a significant role in Palau’s unique marine ecosystem and support the ecotourism industry that is very important to the country’s economy.
Through the resolution, the House committed to create and pass legislative measures that will support the effectiveness of establishing Palau’s exclusive economic zone as sanctuary for all marine mammals.
Palau recently declared over 230,000 square miles a marine mammal sanctuary. The declaration was intended to protect vulnerable marine mammal species.
