Bleaching in the Philippines

[Fiona Gell]

Att Coral List,

during a brief visit to reefs in Northern Palawan (Philippines) I observed extensive bleaching at numerous sites at 
El Nido (Bacuit Bay) and Coron Island. 

Bleaching affected a wide range of coral genera and in some cases whole colonies of Acropora and Porites 
measuring in excess of 4 m2. 

In conversations with local dive shop guides,  it would appear that bleaching is now present at most if not all dive 
sites in the area around El Nido and Coron Island. In addition both dive guides and fishermen have remarked 
that sea temperatures have been higher than usual (as measured by their diving consoles).