After nearly four years, the SCS SAP Project Regional Working Groups (RWG) on coastal and marine ecosystems, namely Coral Reefs, Mangroves, Seagrass, and Wetlands, is finally moving from virtual meetings to an on-the-ground gathering. Taking place in Iloilo City, Philippines from 11-12 August 2025, this meeting marks a pivotal moment for the project. It is our first in-person gathering for the RWGs since the inaugural virtual meetings in December 2021. 

The four-year gap, caused by a worldwide disruption, has been particularly challenging as the six SCS SAP countries face immense pressure to achieve global commitments on climate, biodiversity, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Coastal and marine ecosystems play a significant role in all these areas, making this RWG Meeting an essential step forward in our shared journey towards regional sustainability.

This meeting is more than just a reunion; it’s a critical moment for richer, more dynamic discussions on the Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis/Strategic Action Programme (TDA/SAP) process, which will help us refine our approach and ensure our efforts are grounded in shared knowledge and best practices, discuss our progress at project sites. We will review progress at project sites, allowing us to collaboratively tackle the complex challenges facing mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass, and wetlands.

This meeting is uniquely timed and positioned for maximum impact. It will run back-to-back with the Third Meeting of the COBSEA Working Group on Marine and Coastal Ecosystems (WGMCE-3) and a workshop on Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECM) from 13-16 August to create a dynamic space for knowledge exchange and networking with COBSEA, to build a bridge to the future. With COBSEA being considered as the long-term host for our project's outcomes, these joint sessions are a vital step in institutionalizing our efforts and ensuring our work continues to drive regional cooperation long after the project concludes.

I look forward to the collaborative energy and creative solutions that will emerge from these discussions. Let's seize this opportunity to transform our shared vision into tangible, lasting results for the South China Sea and Gulf of Thailand.

Anders Poulsen
Senior Project Manager

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Access the meeting documents: https://scssap.org/2nd-meeting-of-the-rwg-on-habitats