BY LYNNISSHA RUNA – ISLES FREELANCHER
Pacific Ocean Commissioner Dr. Filimon Manoni stated at the recent Pacific Forum Panel Dialogue on the Future of the Blue Pacific that the Pacific Ocean is central to the identity, heritage, transportation, and sustenance of Pacific peoples. The dialogue took place at the Solomon Islands National University’s School of Marine and Fisheries.
Speaking passionately, Dr. Manoni stressed the central role of the ocean in shaping the region’s identity and future development.
“The Pacific Ocean is more than just a body of water — it is who we are. It is our home, our highway, our safe haven, our identity, and our heritage,” Dr. Manoni said. “It is the very thread that binds the Pacific Islands together.”
He highlighted how the ocean is the spine of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, uniting all its strategic pillars — from environmental resilience to economic development, regional security, and cultural identity.
“When our Pacific Leaders crafted the 2050 Strategy, they recognised that the ocean must be more than a theme. It must be the spine that holds all the strategy’s pillars together,” he explained.
“Our systems and development must remain centred on people, values, and stewardship.”
Cultural Voyages Reaffirm Oceanic Unity
Dr. Manoni pointed to the recent Wansowara Voyages as a living testament to regional unity. Traditional canoes like Uto Ni Yalo, sailing from Suva, Fiji, to Temotu Province and then merging with Tepuke to sail to Honiara, symbolize the deep-rooted connection Pacific people share with the ocean.
“These regional voyages show us we have one ocean, one people, and one culture — the Wansowara,” he said.
A United Voice on the Global Stage
The Commissioner praised Pacific nations for their leadership in ocean diplomacy and multilateralism.
“Over the years, ocean priorities have united us on the global stage. We are a force to reckon with in political leadership and diplomacy — most recently seen at UNOC and in the BBNJ agreement,” he said.
He underlined the economic value of Pacific fisheries, estimated at USD $5 billion annually, and celebrated regional frameworks like the Parties to the Nauru Agreement for delivering sustainable benefits to Pacific communities.
Turning Strategy Into Action
Dr. Manoni reiterated that the 2050 Strategy must go beyond words.
“For the 2050 Strategy to be more than words inked on paper, it must have the ocean at its heart. We need to bring the ocean to life in the 2050 Strategy,” he said.
He acknowledged the support of CROP agencies — including SPREP, SPC, FFA, and USP — and the growing Pacific Ocean Alliance in helping turn ocean aspirations into real actions.
“Our mandate is to help the region translate ocean aspirations into action, and connect the dots across themes and sectors,” he noted.
Youth Engagement and Holistic Governance
Looking to the future, Dr. Manoni stressed the importance of engaging youth and fostering intergenerational partnerships.
“We must continue to engage with our youths and children to ensure strong intergenerational partnerships,” he said.
He also called for a holistic and integrated approach to ocean governance, working closely with development partners and multilateral organisations.
“A holistic approach to ocean governance that promotes integrated ocean management is the key to success,” Dr. Manoni said.
