The Pacific Ocean Commissioner, Dr. Filimon Manoni, has urged Pacific nations to honor their ancestral legacies by taking decisive actions to safeguard the ocean, emphasizing that the region’s future hinges on such efforts. Speaking at the Pacific Voyagers Talanoa, he underscored the link between the seafaring traditions of the Pacific and the modern responsibilities of its people as custodians of the ocean.
Dr. Manoni stated, “It is both a privilege and an honor to gather today to reflect on a legacy that spans thousands of years,” while highlighting how Pacific peoples harnessed their deep understanding of nature to navigate vast waters long before modern technology emerged. He emphasized that these historical journeys were not just about exploration, but also encapsulated resilience and identity—a legacy that must continue to guide contemporary responses to ocean crises.
In his address, he pointed out urgent environmental challenges, including climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, calling for swift, collective action. He advocated for the early ratification of significant global treaties such as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement and a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution.
Dr. Manoni also urged adherence to regional treaties like the Rarotonga and Noumea Conventions, which enhance governance of ocean resources. He stressed the importance of passing down maritime wisdom and traditional knowledge to younger generations as crucial for the survival of Pacific identity and marine conservation efforts.
Although he could not attend the gathering in person due to other commitments, Dr. Manoni reiterated his dedication and that of the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner to support regional ocean initiatives, commending the development partners and stakeholders for their role in making the Talanoa possible.
The sentiments expressed resonate with the ongoing calls for unity and action among Pacific leaders, reflecting a strong commitment to ocean health amid escalating environmental pressures. Collaborative efforts to address these challenges offer hope for a sustainable future, not just for the islands but for global ocean stewardship as well.
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