These women are putting their lives on the line to protect the central Philippines’ marine ecosystem.

Every day, Evelyn Malicay paddles her kayak into a reef off the island of Siquijor in the central Philippines to patrol and protect the marine ecosystem where she lives.

The coral, fish, and other inhabitants had been destroyed by illegal fishing. But thanks to the establishment of the Binoongan Marine Sanctuary, these underwater communities have had a chance to recover.

Malicay has gathered women from across the island to patrol and protect the sanctuary. They’ve set up a bakery and catering service to help fund their volunteers and supplies like kayaks and lighting equipment.

Before the lights were installed, Malicay was nearly shot by an illegal fisherman during a nighttime patrol.

‘If I am here, I will be on guard,’ she says about her dedication to the cause.

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