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  • 14 May 2025

 


 

In the heart of North Sulawesi, nestled between lush forests and sparkling seas, lies the enchanting district of Bolaang Mongondow Selatan, affectionately known as Bolsel. On a breezy Thursday, 9 May 2024, something special was stirring in the salty air — it was World Coral Day and Coral Triangle Day, and Bolsel was abuzz with excitement.

The District Government of Bolsel had extended a warm invitation to the esteemed team from the CTI-CFF Regional Secretariat (RS). Their mission was to join a coral planting event at the stunning H2M Resort in Motandoi.

Led by the dynamic Executive Director, Dr. Frank Keith Griffin, and accompanied by Deputy Executive Directors, Christovel R. S. Rotinsulu and Hanung Cahyono, the RS crew were geared up for a day of marine conservation and adventure.

As the clock struck 10 a.m., the team arrived to the lively sight of a fun dive already underway. Scheduled for 11:30 a.m. was the eagerly anticipated coral planting ceremony. However, Mother Nature had other ideas — heavy rain clouds gathered above, showering the scene in a deluge. Yet, undeterred by the downpour, the CTI-CFF RS team remained steadfast in their commitment to the cause.

In the face of adversity, the show had to go on. Armed with coral fragments and unwavering determination, the RS scuba divers — including Mr. Christovel Rotinsulu, Mr. Fritzgerald Wenur, and Mr. Solomon Sundah — plunged into the depths. Their mission: to sow the seeds of new life in the house reef of the resort. With each careful placement, they painted a picture of a future where these reefs thrive and flourish, rain or shine.

Amidst the rain-soaked reef, another celebration was underway. The Bolsel government proudly inaugurated their Paragliding Team — a thrilling partnership with the Indonesian Air Force that promised breathtaking aerial views of the coastline below. The data generated would also contribute to the management of protected areas within the Coral Triangle.

For Bolsel, this day was more than just a commemoration; it was a pledge to protect and preserve their precious coral reefs through sustainable tourism practices. They vowed to continue their participation in Coral Triangle Day celebrations for years to come. It was a proud sight — the spirit of camaraderie, partnership, and conservation gleaming in the eyes of the officials, scuba divers, and the people of Bolsel.