CNSRV PH: Conservation through Freediving
In the realm of environmental advocacy, CNSRV PH stands out, as bridge between the worlds of freediving and marine conservation. Founded by Geomher Agenar, a freediving instructor, and Glenn Mariano, a dedicated Marine Conservationist and a certified freediver, the organization embodies a fusion of passion, purpose, and commitment to safeguarding our oceans.
In this exclusive interview, the founders shed light on their journey, mission, and the pivotal role CNSRV PH plays in promoting environmental awareness.
In the photo: CNSRV PH Team. From L to R: Geomher, Anna, Glenn, and Kristi.
Photos By: CNSRV PH
Genesis: How was CNSRV PH founded?
CNSRV PH's inception was serendipitous, as Geomher and Glenn crossed paths during a dive event at Apo Reef in 2017. Their shared love for freediving and marine conservation laid the groundwork for a profound partnership.
Geomher, hailing from Bohol, is a flight attendant for 18 years and his career grants him with a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of global ecosystems. He freedives in Batangas during his free time.
In the photo: Geomher (middle) with his students.
Fun Fact: Geomher was formerly with Dive Ta Bai - Bohol and also taught freediving under Apnea Philippines.
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Glenn's background in Biology fueled his passion for marine conservation. He pioneered The Pisces Project, an NGO. However, the COVID pandemic led Glenn to shift focus as a Farm Educator and Consultant.
In the photo: Glenn (middle) conducting a workshop.
Fun Fact: Glenn hails from UPLB, where he got his degree in BS Biology.
The founders collective experience and passion naturally led to the founding of CNSRV PH, fulfilling the need to prevent exploitation of natural resources in the wake of a booming diving industry.
Branding: How did the CNSRV PH name come about?
The name CNSRV PH reflects the organization's core values: Conservation through Freediving. By omitting vowels, the founders aimed to evoke a modern and contemporary identity while fostering engagement and conversation.
In the Photo: CNSRV PH Logo
With a focus on marine conservation and freediving, CNSRV PH aims to inspire meaningful dialogue and action, emphasizing the importance of preserving our oceans for future generations.
Home Base: Tell us why Tingloy was the choice location.
Tingloy, currently CNSRV PH's home base, is the original location of Glenn's previous NGO, The Pisces Project. Nestled within the Verde Island Passage, a global hotspot of marine biodiversity, Tingloy serves as an ideal setting for conservation initiatives. Its rich marine ecosystems provide a backdrop for CNSRV PH's mission to educate, inspire, and protect the ocean's delicate balance.
In the photo: Spirobranchus giganteus a.k.a Christmas Tree Worm
Click: Philstar - DENR assesses Verde Island Passage for protected area status.
Services: What do you offer to the community?
There are 2 categories of services that CNSRV PH offers:
Conservation
- Marine Life Camp
- Fish Identification Workshop
- Coral Reef Workshop
Freediving
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Oceanic Beginnings - Introduction to Freediving
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Course Preparatory Trainings
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Freediving Courses under the Molchanovs Education system
In the photo: Freedive line training by Geomher (right) and his students.
By integrating conservation principles into freediving education, CNSRV PH empowers individuals to explore the ocean responsibly while advocating for its protection.
Let's Talk About Dagat: Tell us more about your tagline.
"Let's Talk About Dagat" is the tagline of CNSRV PH's commitment to spark conversations about conservation. Through classes, camps, and workshops, the organization seeks to foster a community of environmentally conscious freedivers.
In the photo: Workshop by Glenn (right)
By tapping into their students' innate compassion for the ocean, CNSRV PH aims to inspire meaningful action and create a sustainable future for marine ecosystems.
Championing Sustainability: Share us the current state of freediving with respect to the ocean.
In the Philippines, the regulation of freediving is still evolving, resulting in varying practices among different groups. With the ocean being a public domain, enforcement poses significant challenges. Nevertheless, CNSRV PH takes the lead in advocating for best practices and fostering a community that prioritizes the well-being of the ocean above all else.
In the Photo: Coastal trash
Evolution to Best Practices: What are some rooms for improvement?
Current mooring practices require improvement, ideally placing them further away from coral reefs. This not only prevents damage to fragile ecosystems but also reduces disturbance to marine wildlife. As stewards of best practices, CNSRV PH cultivates a generation of freedivers who are deeply mindful of their impact on the ocean.
All activities must prioritize sustainability, ensuring that they are designed and enjoyed in a manner that preserves resources for future generations to benefit from. This underscores the importance of acting not out of selfish interests, but with a sense of responsibility towards the planet. We recognize that we are stewards of the Earth, merely borrowing its resources for our time, with an obligation to leave it in a better state for those who come after us.
Collaborating for Change: What are current gaps that you address?
While The Pisces Project initiated conversations, it primarily raised awareness without a clear call to action, leaving the audience to navigate their next steps independently.
In the photo: The Pisces Project Logo
CNSRV PH bridges this gap by integrating freediving with conservation efforts. Through workshops and training sessions, CNSRV PH not only raises awareness but also equips individuals with the necessary skills to actively engage in marine conservation. By merging education with practical skills in freediving, aspiring conservationists are empowered to immerse in conservation efforts with confidence and purpose.
A Sustainable Future for Freediving: How is the community at large taking action currently?
Coastal cleanups draw the largest crowds due to their accessibility, and they offer an opportunity for participation without the need for diving skills. Yet, it's crucial to recognize that the true harm often lies beneath the surface, particularly affecting delicate coral reefs and seabeds.
In the photo: Coastal Cleanup
In shallow depths where scuba diving becomes cost-prohibitive and logistically challenging, freediving emerges as a vital tool for conservation. Moreover, there's a growing trend towards coral reef monitoring programs, recognized for their significant impact on data collection and contributions to scientific research.
Government: Share us your thoughts with Government's involvement so far.
Government involvement is pivotal in the implementation of future regulations, a process that CNSRV PH believes is already underway. It's essential for authorities to engage with leaders of dive groups, as they possess firsthand knowledge and experience crucial to crafting effective policies.
Photo By: Geomher / The Travelling Giant
Freedivers, who frequently traverse ocean depths, offer valuable insights into marine conservation matters, making their input indispensable in shaping regulations that safeguard our oceans.
Join the Movement: How can we help you?
To those who share their passion for the ocean, CNSRV PH extends an invitation to join the conservation movement. Whether as students, community members, partners, or supporters, every individual has a role to play in protecting our oceans.
Reach out to CNSRV PH:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CNSRVPH
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cnsrvph
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As we draw to a close, we'd like to leave you with the timeless wisdom of David Attenborough, an esteemed biologist and revered advocate for our planet: