Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute Philippines (NGO)

Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute Philippines (LAMAVE) is a Filipino non-government organisation dedicated to the conservation of marine megafauna. We believe science, people and knowledge are key to protect the oceans and the species that call them home. Our team, who come from different backgrounds are united by a shared passion to ensure a secure and prosperous ocean for marine life and people. LAMAVE began in 2010 as a marine mammal research expedition in the Bohol Sea - an incredible deep water trench in Central Visayas with strong currents and upwellings. It quickly became obvious that the Bohol Sea was a hotspot for marine megafauna, hosting not only cetaceans but also whale sharks, manta rays and turtles. We thus diversified our research efforts to encompass these other marine taxa. Over time the locations of our research sites grew as well, expanding our conservation impact across the country.

Our Vision A secure and prosperous ocean for marine life and people.

Our Mission We activate governments, communities, and the next generation with research-based solutions to sustainably manage marine megafauna and their habitats in Southeast Asia.