Blancpain: Opening of the Sulubaaï Marine Research Center
As one of the many results of the Swiss watchmaker's extensive Ocean Commitment program, Blancpain opened the Blancpain x Sulubaaï Marine Research Center in the Palawan archipelago, Philippines, on February 7, 2025. This new facility acts as an extension of the Sulubaaï Environmental Foundation's Sea Academy project, a pilot program for the creation of community-managed marine protected areas, which Blancpain has been supporting since 2019. The new center aims, among other things, "to facilitate the study, restoration, and protection of Shark Fin Bay."
Despite the Palawan archipelago, a cluster of islands composed of one long main island and smaller groups of islands around it, being a UNESCO biosphere site, its marine ecosystems remain largely unprotected and understudied "due to inadequate infrastructure, communication barriers, and logistical challenges among researchers, stakeholders, authorities, and the local community." To address these issues, the Sulubaaï Environmental Foundation and Blancpain have decided to build a marine research center on the northern end of the village of Sandoval.
The center is an extension of the Sea Academy Program and dedicated to preserving, protecting, and restoring the natural resources of Palawan through sustainable practices. It is located near key research areas and the five marine protected areas (MPA) of Shark Fin Bay, established with Blancpain's support.
The Blancpain x Sulubaaï Marine Research Center is designed as a collaborative space for local communities, scientists, and decision-makers to work together and share knowledge and experiences on marine ecosystems and their management. Funded by Blancpain, "the center has a mission to facilitate scientific and community initiatives to improve the conservation and management of Palawan's marine ecosystems and resources, and serves as a hub for biodiversity and marine ecosystem restoration." The center is also partnering with universities to offer facilities and opportunities for research students to conduct fieldwork and advanced studies.
Additionally, the center will provide training for local fishermen, teachers, and eco-guards, ensuring the long-term conservation of Palawan's marine ecosystem and its marine protected areas.
Stay tuned for an in-depth article about both the Blancpain x Sulubaaï Marine Research Center (and the dive watch supporting its operation) in WatchTime's upcoming May-June print issue.
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For more information, follow these links: Sulubaaï Foundation / Blancpain Ocean Commitment
