The Philippines at the Center of a Soft Coral Revolution: New Study Uncovers Exceptional Marine Biodiversity in West Philippine Sea and Benham Bank

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a groundbreaking discovery that places the Philippines once again on the global map of marine biodiversity, new research reveals that soft corals found in the West Philippine Sea and Benham Bank are among the most diverse in the world.

The revelation comes from a sweeping global study, published this May in Nature Scientific Reports, titled “Biodiversity and biogeography of zooxanthellate soft corals across the Indo-Pacific.” It offers the most comprehensive exploration yet into soft corals—an enigmatic and often overlooked class of marine life known as Octocorallia.

Soft corals are more than just underwater ornaments. Their hypnotic movements and vibrant hues captivate divers, but they also play a fundamental role in maintaining marine ecosystems. They contribute to reef structure, offer sanctuary to countless marine organisms, and may hold the key to life-saving medicines. Yet, despite their importance, they have remained under-studied, particularly in Southeast Asia.

That’s about to change—with the Philippines leading the charge.

Philippine Waters: A Hotspot of Coral Richness

Dr. Jue Lalas, a Filipino marine biologist and co-author of the international study, emphasized the country’s pivotal role:

“The samples from the Philippines were major representatives for the Coral Triangle region. The paper shows that the Philippines, including the West Philippine Sea and Benham Bank, is part of one of the centers of zooxanthellate soft coral diversity.”

Specimens were sourced from across the archipelago—including the Kalayaan Island Group, Western Palawan, Pangasinan, Puerto Galera, and Benham Bank in the Philippine Rise—between 2019 and 2021. Most of them were collected by Dr. Lalas himself, then a research associate at the UP Marine Science Institute (MSI), with the support of Rhea Luciano and Christine Segumalian. They were all part of the Interactions of Marine Bionts and Benthic Ecosystems (IMBiBE) Laboratory led by another Filipino co-author, Dr. Maria Vanessa Baria-Rodriguez.

This collaboration between local scientists and global institutions resulted in over 4,000 soft coral samples from more than 40 countries and territories, creating a molecular treasure trove for biodiversity researchers.

A Molecular Window into the Reef

Using DNA barcoding—specifically the mtMutS and 28S rDNA markers—the team classified the coral samples into molecular operational taxonomic units, mapping patterns of species richness and endemicity across the Indo-Pacific. Their findings spotlighted two critical regions for soft coral biodiversity: the Indo-Australian Archipelago and the Western Indian Ocean.

But it’s the Philippine waters—especially the West Philippine Sea and Benham Bank—that emerged as standout zones of both diversity and endemic species, many of which may still be undocumented.

Unveiling the Unseen

“There are just very few papers on soft corals in the Philippines, despite them being obviously dominant components of our coral reefs,” explained Dr. Lalas. “That’s largely due to the lack of experts studying them, as more attention has traditionally been given to hard corals.”

Dr. Baria-Rodriguez and her IMBiBE team have been working to change that narrative. Since 2019, they’ve collaborated with world-renowned soft coral taxonomist Dr. Yehuda Benayahu to train local scientists in coral identification and taxonomy. Their work has already expanded our understanding of soft coral ecology and distribution, and their continued efforts promise even deeper insights.

In 2023, another training was held to further bolster local expertise, drawing participants from UP MSI and other partner universities.

Climate Clues from Coral

This growing body of research holds implications far beyond academic curiosity. In an age of climate change and ecological instability, soft corals may serve as environmental sentinels.

“In some disturbed reef areas in the Indo-Pacific, studies are showing a shift toward soft coral dominance,” Dr. Lalas shared. “They are generally more resilient to disturbances, but they too can suffer mortality if environmental stressors persist.”

Their ability to survive in stressed habitats suggests that soft corals might play an important role in maintaining reef ecosystems under climate duress. And where soft corals go, scientists believe, critical clues about ocean health may follow.

A Call for Protection and Continued Exploration

The study also hypothesizes that vast numbers of soft coral species—particularly in the West Philippine Sea, South China Sea, and Red Sea—remain undiscovered. “We have undoubtedly underestimated the number of species for these taxa,” the authors admit.

For Dr. Lalas and his team, the findings mark just the beginning.

“If you look at the study more closely, and the literature on Philippine soft corals, we have yet to explore their diversity in most of our seas,” he noted. “This represents a vast opportunity for coral reef scientists across the country.”

Their message is clear: the Philippines is sitting atop a marine goldmine of biodiversity, and with rising interest, there’s a real opportunity to lead global soft coral research while safeguarding these fragile ecosystems.

From the Depths to the World Stage

This landmark research is a triumph not just for science but for Philippine environmental stewardship. It highlights the Philippines’ indispensable role in the marine biodiversity of the Coral Triangle and amplifies the urgent need to protect its aquatic frontiers from exploitation and degradation.

The studies and expeditions behind these discoveries were made possible through partnerships with various agencies and projects, including PROTECT WPS (funded by DENR-BMB), UPGRADE-CIA (National Security Council), DDHP (DOST-PCHRD), and SECURE Philippine Rise (DENR-BMB), among others.

As we learn more about the invisible wonders of the sea, one thing becomes clear: the West Philippine Sea and Benham Bank are not just rich in soft corals—they are symbols of the nation’s marine legacy, waiting to be fully understood and fiercely protected.

For further inquiries or media interviews, contact the UP MSI Communications Team at content@msi.upd.edu.ph.

Wazzup Pilipinas remains committed to showcasing the incredible achievements of Filipino scientists and the majestic beauty of our seas. This is not just a story about coral—it’s a call to action for marine conservation and scientific advancement.

The 10 Best Places to Travel in 2025: Destinations That Will Transform Your Soul and Satisfy Your Wanderlust

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

As 2024 fades into memory, the horizon of 2025 beckons with irresistible adventures and once-in-a-lifetime journeys. While iconic metropolises like Paris and Tokyo will always allure, the coming year unveils a collection of captivating destinations that transcend the typical travel bucket list. From remote islands that are finally within reach to ancient cities stepping into a bold new era, these ten locations promise not only awe-inspiring landscapes and rich histories but also transformative experiences that speak to the soul of the modern explorer.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the 10 Best Places to Travel in 2025—destinations chosen not just for their beauty, but for the stories they’re ready to tell.

1. Greenland: A Wilderness Once Distant, Now Near

What was once unreachable is now just four hours away. Greenland is shedding its remote reputation with the opening of new airports, including one in the capital Nuuk, enabling the first direct flights from the U.S. and Europe. Starting June 14, United Airlines connects Newark to this icy wonderland—bringing you face-to-face with nature in its rawest form.

Imagine dog sledding under the midnight sun, watching whales breach in pristine Arctic waters, and escaping into a landscape that feels untouched by time. With spotty cell service and endless vistas, Greenland is the ultimate reset for the soul.

2. Marrakech, Morocco: Where Time Stands Still and History Breathes

Marrakech, Morocco’s radiant red jewel, has long captivated the senses—but now it’s easier to reach than ever. United Airlines has launched the first nonstop U.S. flights to the North African marvel, eliminating the hassle of connections.

Wander the storied streets of the ancient Medina, barter in bustling souks, and breathe in centuries of culture layered into every corner. This thousand-year-old city is where the past pulses alongside the present—mystical, magnetic, and now magnificently accessible.

3. Kanazawa, Japan: The Soul of Old Japan Without the Crowds

Japan’s best-kept secret is ready for the spotlight. While tourists flock to Tokyo and Kyoto, Kanazawa offers serenity, tradition, and elegance without the throngs. With Japan Airlines offering free domestic flights for visitors, getting here is easier than ever.

Marvel at Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens. Stroll through perfectly preserved geisha and samurai districts. And take a fairytale day trip to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO site blanketed in charm. In 2025, discover the Japan you didn’t know you needed.

4. Quebec City, Canada: French Romance Without the Jet Lag

Step into a European dream—no passport stamps required. Quebec City wraps old-world charm and culinary excellence into a North American package. And in 2025, the Michelin Guide will grace the city for the first time, putting its gastronomy in the global spotlight.

Behind the ramparts of Old Quebec, you’ll find cobbled streets, timeless architecture, and the iconic Château Frontenac rising proudly over the skyline. Romantic, walkable, and bursting with culture—Quebec City is the Francophile escape of the year.

5. Curaçao: A Caribbean Canvas Bursting With Color

This Dutch-Caribbean island may be small, but in 2025, it’s making big moves. As one of the first nations to adopt the brand-new Caribbean guilder, Curaçao is reintroducing itself to the world.

Colorful colonial buildings line the waterfront of Willemstad, where culture and relaxation harmonize perfectly. UNESCO heritage, turquoise beaches, boutique hotels, and a warm, multicultural vibe—this is paradise before the crowds. Come for the charm, stay for the serenity.

6. Seoul, South Korea: A City Where the Future Meets Flavor

Seoul is more than just a cultural juggernaut—it’s a city that never stops evolving. K-pop and Korean dramas have taken the world by storm, but nothing compares to experiencing its energy firsthand.

Taste the world's best fried chicken, lose yourself in the neon magic of Hongdae, hike through Bukhansan’s majestic peaks, and find harmony in ancient palaces shadowed by skyscrapers. Seoul in 2025 is a symphony of tradition and tech—loud, proud, and deliciously unforgettable.

7. Patagonia, Chile: Journey to the Edge of the Earth

If raw, untamed beauty stirs your spirit, Patagonia is calling. Stretching over 1,000 miles across southern Chile, this natural masterpiece boasts towering mountains, glaciers that groan with age, and wildlife that roams freely.

Now, with Silversea Cruises opening the world’s southernmost luxury hotel in Puerto Williams, even the most remote corners are becoming accessible. Whether you cruise to Antarctica or trek Torres del Paine, Patagonia will leave you forever changed.

8. Tucson, Arizona: A Culinary Capital in the Desert

Yes, Tucson. This desert gem isn’t just about cacti and sunsets—it’s a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, the only one in the U.S., with a food heritage stretching back 4,000 years.

Taste tradition in every bite, where Native American and Mexican influences meet in culinary harmony. Visit the breathtaking San Xavier del Bac Mission, hike the Saguaro-lined trails, and discover why this under-the-radar city is suddenly on every foodie’s map.

9. Helsinki, Finland: The Happiest Place on Earth (Literally)

For the seventh year in a row, Finland has been crowned the happiest country in the world—and its capital, Helsinki, embodies that joy with quiet grace. Whether it’s the innovative architecture, the world-class healthcare and education systems, or just the clean, crisp air—something here just feels right.

Take a moment of silence in the famed Chapel of Silence, hop on a tram through picturesque streets, or join a heavy metal concert (yes, seriously). In Helsinki, you won’t just explore a city—you’ll witness a way of life the world should envy.

10. Bhutan: The Kingdom Where Happiness Reigns

High in the Himalayas lies Bhutan, a nation like no other. Known as the “Thunder Dragon Kingdom,” it is the only country with a Gross National Happiness index and the first to go carbon-negative. Now, visiting is a bit easier—its Sustainable Development Fee has been slashed from $200 to $100 per day through 2027.

Explore cliffside monasteries like the Tiger’s Nest, immerse yourself in Buddhist serenity, and discover a nation where the spirit is nourished as deeply as the senses. For those seeking meaning in their travels, Bhutan is not just a destination—it’s a revelation.

2025 Is the Year of Bold Travels and Beautiful Discoveries

These ten destinations offer more than photo ops—they offer perspective, connection, and wonder. Whether you're chasing history in Marrakech, silence in Bhutan, or tacos in Tucson, the world in 2025 is bursting with places that speak not just to your Instagram feed, but to your inner explorer.

Pack light. Travel far. Let 2025 be the year your journey truly begins.

LET FOOD WASTE SHINE: How a Filipino Student Turned Rotting Crops into a Solar Power Revolution

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a world desperate for clean energy and solutions to mounting food waste, a young Filipino dared to see beyond what was discarded. Where others saw rotting fruit, Carvey Ehren Maigue saw radiant potential. While storms clouded the Philippine skies and city buildings blocked the sun, this visionary engineering student from Mapúa University imagined a future where even gloomy days could bring light—and power.

His invention, now known as AuREUS—short for Aurora Renewable Energy and UV Sequestration—isn’t just a technological feat. It’s a stunning story of sustainability, survival, and the boundless brilliance of Filipino ingenuity.

BEYOND SUNLIGHT: THE BIRTH OF A SOLAR BREAKTHROUGH

Traditional solar panels rely on visible sunlight, which means they're useless when the skies are overcast or blocked by high-rise buildings. But Carvey asked a radical question: What if we could harvest invisible light—the ultraviolet rays that still penetrate clouds?

The answer came from nature itself.

Carvey discovered that certain fruits and vegetables contain luminescent particles capable of absorbing UV light and converting it into visible light. This visible light, in turn, could be captured by standard solar cells and turned into electricity.

He experimented with nearly 80 crops and found nine with the right properties. From there, he developed a translucent resin panel that looks like colored glass—but acts like a power plant.

The magic? It works even without direct sunlight, making it ideal for urban buildings, shaded areas, and even indoor environments.

FROM FARM WASTE TO FUTURE POWER

AuREUS isn’t just a solar panel. It’s a circular economy in action. It takes agricultural waste—fruits damaged by climate change or unsellable crops—and gives them new life. What once rotted in landfills, now powers phones, homes, and eventually cities.

In Carvey’s own words:

“My device uses waste to generate energy, showing that there's value in what we throw away. It's about building a world that works with nature, not against it.”

The prototype—installed as a window panel in his home—was able to charge two phones, even on a rainy day. And that’s just the beginning.

A GLOBAL STAGE FOR A FILIPINO INNOVATOR

In 2020, Carvey Ehren Maigue became the first-ever winner of the James Dyson Award for Sustainability—beating out more than 1,800 entries from 27 countries.

Dyson founder Sir James Dyson himself praised Carvey’s resilience, noting that he had previously failed to qualify but came back stronger, refining his idea into something truly groundbreaking.

Carvey didn’t just win the prize. He won the admiration of the global scientific and sustainability community, proving that even in a country battered by typhoons and burdened by climate change, brilliance can bloom.

REIMAGINING OUR CITIES, REPOWERING OUR PLANET

Imagine skyscrapers sheathed in glowing panels that generate electricity from ambient UV rays. Picture homes, schools, and jeepneys with AuREUS windows. Visualize a future where every building becomes a silent solar engine, and every discarded fruit becomes a spark of change.

That’s the future Carvey envisions.

Unlike traditional panels that work only 15–22% of the time (during peak sunlight), AuREUS can remain productive up to 50% of the time. It works not just on rooftops—but on windows, walls, and even vehicles. It doesn’t need a field. It doesn’t need the sun to shine. It just needs our will to transform the way we see energy.

THE ROAD AHEAD

With his prize winnings, Carvey is now improving the material, scaling production, and collaborating with architects and engineers to deploy AuREUS across public infrastructure.

He’s also working to empower Filipino farmers, whose rejected crops can become raw materials for his panels—turning wasted harvests into sources of hope and income.

The goal is ambitious: a world powered by what we once threw away.

LET THE FUTURE GLOW

Carvey Ehren Maigue is no longer just an engineering student. He is a beacon of possibility for a generation looking to repair a broken planet.

His invention, born from the quiet observation of nature’s hidden talents, may be one of the most important solar breakthroughs of the decade. It’s poetic. It’s practical. It’s powerful.

And above all—it’s proudly Filipino.

So the next time the clouds roll in and the sun disappears, remember: the light is still there. It’s just waiting for someone like Carvey to unlock it.

Let food waste shine. Let the future shine.

Let us shine—together.