About Us
Welcome to Concepcion Beneath the Sea
The Villanueva/Vergara family, whose heritage is deeply entwined with the pristine waters of Concepcion, envisions leveraging the area’s untouched beauty and rich marine biodiversity. Our mission? To launch a sustainable underwater marine eco-tourism venture that not only showcases the endangered Giant Clams native to our shores but also fosters economic growth and conservation.
Our Team
Marienne Vergara
Dr. Robert Kakalia
Virgil Vergara
OUR MISSION:
Join our mission to restore the majesty of Giant Clams to the waters off Concepcion’s coast. The
Philippines is home to seven uniques pecies of these oceanic treasures, many of which face the threat of extinction. The Tridacna Gigas, the grandest among them, can grow over 4 feet in length and has a life span that exceeds a century.
WHY HELP THE GIANT CLAMS?
Sadly, the Tridacna Gigas is on the brink of disappearing from our natural world, with none left around the Island of Pinay. They can not survive without our help. That’s where Adoptagiantclam.org steps in: we are dedicated to reintroducing these magnificent creatures
back into their native habitat, allowing visitors from across the globe to witness their splendor
first hand.
GIANT CLAMS ARE VITAL TO THE ECOSYSTEM:
Giant Clams are not just passive ocean dwellers; they actively contribute to their ecosystem. Engaging in a symbiotic relationship with algae, they convert sunlight into food and maintain
water quality by filter-feeding, which supports their impressive growth.
WHY GIANT CLAMS ARE DISAPPEARING:
However, these gentle giants are under siege. The Tridacna Gigas, in particular, is highly coveted for decorative purposes, especially in China where they’re sculpted into ivory-like trinkets due to restrictions on the ivory trade. This has led to the unsustainable harvesting of Giant Clams around the Philippines sea, further jeopardizing their existence.
OUR GOAL:
Our initiative doesn’t just aim to replenish Giant Clam populations; it also seeks to spark a sustainable tourism movement in Concepcion, Iloilo. Imagine diving or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by these serene behemoths—a once-in-a-life time experience; we’re striving to offer.
Help Us Reach Our Goal!
Here are our main objectives for this program:
- Eco-Tourism Development: Our goal is to establish “Concepcion, Beneath the Sea” as a leading destination for marine eco-tourism, offering unparalleled underwater adventures featuring the awe-inspiring Giant Clams.
- Conservation Efforts: We are dedicated to the preservation of Giant Clams and their natural habitats through eco-friendly tourism practices.
- Economic Growth: By introducing this initiative, we aim to boost Concepcion’s economy, creating jobs and supporting local enterprises within the eco-tourism sector.
Together, we can make a difference in the preservation of Giant Clams and the marine ecosystems they call home. Join us on this incredible journey to ensure a brighter future for these amazing creatures.
Our Mission
Giant Clams, with their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, are not only a marvel of the ocean but also essential to maintaining the health of coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Unfortunately, these magnificent creatures are under threat due to habitat destruction, over-harvesting, and climate change. We believe that with the right education and conservation efforts, we can make a positive impact on their survival.
Why We Adopt Giant Clams
Our passion for Giant Clams is rooted in a deep appreciation for the wonders of the ocean. We understand that these gentle giants play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, from improving water quality to providing shelter for countless species. Our commitment is driven by a desire to safeguard their future for generations to come.
What We Do
- Education: We believe that knowledge is the key to change. Through our website, outreach programs, and educational initiatives, we aim to inform people about the importance of Giant Clams in the marine environment. Our goal is to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for these unique creatures.
- Conservation Efforts: Adopt Giant Clams actively participates in conservation projects aimed at protecting and preserving Giant Clams in Ilo-Ilo. We collaborate with experts, organizations, and local communities to implement sustainable conservation strategies.
- Advocacy: We advocate for the protection of Giant Clams and their habitats through public awareness campaigns and by engaging with policymakers. Our aim is to influence policies that support the conservation of these remarkable creatures.
Join Us in Our Mission
- Learn: Explore our website for educational resources, articles, and updates on our conservation efforts.
- Support: Contribute to our cause by making a donation, volunteering, or participating in our events.
- Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness by sharing our mission with your friends and family.
Together, we can make a difference in the preservation of Giant Clams and the marine ecosystems they call home. Join us on this incredible journey to ensure a brighter future for these amazing creatures.
