These waters are part of the so-called Coral Triangle, a tropical marine area located in the Pacific Ocean that is home to the greatest marine biodiversity in the world. It is home to 76% of known coral species, 6 of the 7 existing species of sea turtles, and at least 2228 species of reef fish, earning it the nickname "hatchery" or "cradle of the seas" or "Amazon of the seas." It is also an important tuna breeding and transit area.
The marine waters of the Philippines are home to 2400 species of fish and more than 500 species of coral. The Apo Reef, located in the Mindoro Strait and covering 34 square kilometers, is the largest continuous coral reef system in the country and the second largest in the world. The reef and its surrounding waters are a protected area administered as the Apo Reef Nature Park. It is one of the most famous and popular diving areas in the country. It is placed on UNESCO's preliminary list of world heritage sites.
The waters of the Philippines are also conducive to pearl, crab, and seaweed farming.
