Greenpeace called Apo Island Marine Reserve in central Philippines a 'ray of hope' for oceans around the world for demonstrating how reserves can effectively restore the productivity and biodiversity.

"Apo Island has always been the model of hope for coastal communities in the Philippines... and shows how more reserves around the globe will mean a better chance for the oceans to recover," said Greenpeace Southeast Asia campaigner Daniel Ocampo.

Based on recent studies, the effect of human activity on marine ecosystems have reached a critical point. While the Philippine archipelago is considered as the world's centre of marine biodiversity, yet its marine ecosystem is one of the most highly threatened in the world.

But Apo Island shows the way in solving the environmental crisis. Thirty years ago, the reefs around the island had been decimated by destructive fishing practices. Today, the wide variety  of marine life has returned thanks to the reserve.

Greenpeace wants for 40% of the world's oceans to be set aside as protected as marine reserves to restore its health. "Saving the oceans means stopping the threats to marine ecosystems at the same time as we set aside areas for its protection and rehabilitation. In this way, Apo Island and other marine protected areas throughout the globe can effectively ensure the future of our oceans," said Dr. Janet Cotter of Greenpeace's Science Unit.

The total catch of ocean fish increased by almost 400% in less than 50 years. From 18.5 million metric tonnes in 1950 to 73.5 million metric ton in 1996, the figure continues to rise rapidly since. On the global scale, Food and Agriculture Office reported 50% of global marine resources are fully exploited. Only about 25% could withstand higher exploitations rates.