PAWB continued to implement the Wetland Conservation Program in recognition of the immense importance of wetlands to people and biological diversity.  Mangroves, estuaries and mudflats, seagrass beds, coral reefs, lakes, freshwater swamps and marshes, brackish ponds and man-made reservoirs comprise wetlands. The following activities were accomplished: 

·        Prepared the Ramsar Information sheet for Candaba Swamp and Malasi Lake 

·        Conducted the validation workshop for the National Action Plan on Peatlands and Communication Planning for peatlands in relation to the implementation of the Peatland Project entitled “Rehabilitation and Sustainable Use of Peatland in Southeast Asia” funded by UNEP/GEF. 

·        2008 Celebration of World Wetlands Day which includes hanging of streamers and prepared press releases  

·        Implementation of the UNEP/GEF South China Sea Project 

º     Coordinated/facilitated the signing of the 3^rd amendment to the MOU between UNEP and PAWB-DENR in its capacity as Specialized Executing Agency for Philippine Wetlands Sub-Component of the South Cine Sea Project.  The MOU is extending the Project until 31 December 2008 in order to allow time for completion of some delayed activities. 

º     Organized the 9^th Meeting of the regional Working Group for the Wetlands Sub-component, which was held on 6-9 May 2008 in Taytay, Palawan. 

º     Participated in the Regional Training-Workshop on Economic Valuation of the Goods and Services of Coastal Habitats held on 24-28 March 2008 at Samut-Songkram Province, Thailland. 

º     Conducted the National Echo Seminar of the Regional Training Workshop on Economic Valuation of Goods and Services from Coastal Habitats held at UP Marine Science Institute, Bolinao, Pangasinan on 14-16 May 2008 

º     Conducted the National Echo Seminar on “Sustainable Use and Management of Coastal Wetlands” and the consultation-workshop on the wetlands national action plan held at Camelot Hotel, Quezon City on 11-14 June 2008.