This area is unique in all the world for its stunning natural beauty and rare indigeneous flora and fauna. The normally gentle seas, white sands and warm, tropical setting cause many seasoned travelers to refer to this part of the South China Sea as Asia's "Caribbean". Unlike the Caribbean, however, much of this area remains remote and primitive, though not remote enough to escape damage from careless exploitation. Practices such as the use of dynamite and cyanide for the acquisition of tropical fish for the aquarium trade have negatively impacted many of the reef ecosystems that are the marine hallmark of the area. On too many islands, poor land use has displaced endemic plants and animals.

PEMS intends to survey and catalog the existing state of the marine and island ecosystems throughout the archipelago, and to directly assist in protection and repair of both above and below sea level habitats, including the establishment of sanctuaries for native and endangered species. Additionally, through local grants, work projects and educational outreach, PEMS hopes to influence the local population toward far greater recognition of the value of preserving their natural resources and cultural heritage.

The first phase of this mission has been the establishment of the eco-tourism project, Palawan Eco Adventures, which enables us to immediately infuse activity and capital into the local economies of Busuanga, Linapacan, and Northern Palawan, while concurrently directing greater attention upon the urgent environmental needs of the region.

We welcome you to participate in this on-going project, either by joining us on one of our Eco Adventures through the beautiful islands of the Northern Palawans... and/or by supporting the Palawan Environmental and Marine Studies Center so that we might accelerate our progress in meeting the challenge of preserving and protecting this irreplaceable natural wonderland.

We hope to see you aboard one of our bancas soon!