MANILA - United States military divers on Thursday assisted their Philippine counterparts, along with local government and non-governmental volunteers, in installing artificial habitat reefs in Calatagan town, Batangas.

In a statement, the United States embassy in Manila said 6 US divers with 5 support crew members joined the project.

A total of 30 jackstone-type artificial habitat reefs made from simple construction materials were installed. These reefs, the US consulate said, will serve as shelter, food sources, and breeding areas for wildlife.

Corals will eventually cover the installed structure, revitalizing marine life and improving fishing livelihoods in the coastal communities of Batangas, the US embassy said.

“This project was a fantastic opportunity for us to partner with our friends in the PAF and help preserve the Philippine environment for future generations,” said Maj. Zach Hart, a US diver.

The project, dubbed "Operation Pamamalakaya," was a collaboration between the Philippine Air Force (PAF), DV Boer Farm, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Batangas community environment and natural resources office, and the Municipality of Calatagan.