We are on an expedition trying to find the last Irrawaddy dolphins of the Coral Triangle and working with local, artisanal fishers to protect the welfare of the people and nature of the Malampaya Sound.
This expedition dives deep into the fragile beauty of Palawan’s Malampaya Sound, blending high-stakes science, community storytelling, and breathtaking exploration. We are challenging the current narrative to show that conservation is a duality: animals are critically threatened in areas where people are the most vulnerable, and resource competition is the highest.
Philippine communities are facing threats from extreme weather, in-migration, and depleting fisheries. Our mission, alongside local communities, is to use photography to convey the urgent need for intervention and gather critical baseline data that may save the last known Irrawaddy dolphin population in the Philippines from extinction
Meet the Team
Gary Haskins is a renowned cetacean field researcher with decades of field experience in cetacean research. His work has taken him to countries around the world and provided him with a multifaceted skill set. Gary has spent years becoming a successful field sound recordist, photo-ID operator, and assistant videographer for creative short films.
In the realm of bioacoustics, Gary has made significant contributions, including presenting a groundbreaking conference presentation showcasing the first description of minke whale vocalizations in UK waters. His work has expanded our understanding of Northern Atlantic minke whale vocalizations, previously only documented off the coast of the USA.
With a passion for both science and art, Gary believes in the power of merging data collection, research, and artistic expression to drive positive change. As a musician and adventure enthusiast, he infuses creativity and passion into his work, whether it’s embarking on pioneering expeditions or using his media skills to raise awareness and inspire others. Gary’s ultimate goal is to make a meaningful impact on marine conservation efforts worldwide.
Dr. Alessandro Ponzo is a veterinarian specialized in marine wildlife conservation. He is the co-founder of the Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute Philippines, an NGO dedicated to the conservation of marine megafauna in Southeast Asia. His work with LAMAVE focuses on designing and supervising research projects aimed to solve urgent conservation issues, spanning from marine turtle poaching and unsustainable fisheries to unregulated tourism practices and illegal wildlife trade.
Ale is a National Geographic Explorer and a Kinship Fellow. He is also the co-founder of the global Sea Turtle Rescue Alliance, and the Asia-Pacific Marine Turtle Genetic Working Group, both initiatives aimed at supporting the recovery of endangered populations of marine turtles in Asia.
Mirali Shukla is an award winning researcher and photographer whose work focuses on the connections between people and nature, and the conflict and peace dynamics that are related to this interaction. She is currently the Deputy Chair of the IUCN CEESP Theme on Environment and Peace.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in International Relations with a focus on Environmental Conflict and a Masters of Research in Endangered Species Recovery and Conservation. Mirali is on a number of working groups and task-forces focused on the joint welfare of wildlife and communities.
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