French help in protecting fish sanctuaries in the Philippine province of Palawan province was welcome but a balance of environmental interests with local fishermen’s welfare was needed, a bishop says.

Strict security measures by French pearl farms prohibit access by local fishermen to the sanctuaries, says Bishop Pedro Arigo, head of the vicariate of Puerto Pincesa.

But these areas should not be totally restricted, the bishop said.

French Ambassador Thierry Borja de Mozota had promised that his government would protect the natural resources of the province while providing a livelihood for local people through the farms.

Ambassador de Mozota said "priorities" should be defined.

“First of all, pearl farms are creating many jobs… and we are discussing and finding solutions (to the problems).”

But if development comes at the expense of the common people, “there is something wrong,” Bishop Arigo said.

The French ambassador responded that farm owners are cooperating with the government and that he is aware of the issues surrounding pearl farms in the province.

PM10020.1605