Welcome to Project SHIPS, a pioneering research endeavor in the Philippines that investigates the dynamics of marine heatwaves (MHW) events within its territorial seas. 

Our project investigates the development of MHW events in the country, aiming to develop models for assessing and forecasting their spatial and temporal distribution. Additionally, we strive to improve the forecasting capacity of extreme climate events for marine ecosystem management and conservation, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk reduction.

Marine heatwave (MHW) events are discrete and prolonged periods of anomalously warm seawater temperature that have devastating socio-economic and environmental impacts. 

The impacts include the intensification of extreme weather events, the economic loss of fisheries, and the decline in marine biodiversity and ecosystem.

The Philippine Sea, a vital hub of biodiversity, faces escalating threats from climate change, including the proliferation of marine heatwaves, imperiling its ecological integrity.

The Philippines relies heavily on its marine resources for sustenance and livelihoods, with fisherfolk playing a pivotal role. Marine heatwaves could disrupt ecosystems, alter fish distribution, and reduce catch yields, posing significant challenges to coastal communities' economic stability and well-being.

Understanding the interaction between marine heatwaves and typhoons is crucial for enhancing preparedness and resilience to extreme weather events in the Philippines, as warmer ocean waters can exacerbate typhoon intensity by providing additional energy.

The project investigates the development of MHW events within the Philippines, examining their drivers, patterns, and impacts on marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

The project aims to detect, monitor, and forecast heatwaves in the Philippine seas to provide timely insights for effective mitigation and safeguarding of marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

The project initiates the assessment of the effects of MHW on marine ecosystems, biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal communities, important for crafting effective adaptation and mitigation strategies to tackle these extreme climate events.

The project aims to develop models to predict the spatial and temporal distribution of MHW events and their impacts, enabling proactive measures and adaptive strategies to mitigate potential consequences.

The project aims to enhance LGUs' capacity to achieve SDGs 11, 13, and 14 by integrating MHW assessment into marine resource management policies, fostering climate resilience and sustainable development in coastal communities.