Name: Erin Canto
Nickname: Er / Rin / E
Where are you from / Where do you call home?
Bacolod City, Philippines but home is where the ocean is!
What are you best known for?
The ‘Kaladkarin’ friend — a Filipino term for the friend who is always up for anything. Need a travel buddy? Food trip? Or just be boring together? You got me!
What’s your background (i.e. previous work experience or education)?
I first studied Computer Engineering Technology and worked in the industry for a while then I traded my pair of shoes for a pair of fins. My love for the ocean has led me to study for a Bachelor's in Marine Biology and worked for the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PRRCFI) on initiatives and projects on the circular economy, plastic pollution and climate change.
What inspired you to get into marine conservation?
I was a sickly kid growing up, so my parents always brought me to the beach when I had attacks. That’s where I first practised my breathing and grounding exercises. The ocean has always been a lifeline for me, so I couldn’t imagine anything else doing other than conserving it.
What brought you to Reef-World & why do you care about the work we do?
When I changed careers, I had one thing in mind — to study corals and how to protect them. I have seen first-hand how vulnerable corals are and how some of them were not able to recover anymore due to bleaching, climate change and human activities. The best time to protect them was fifty years ago, the second best time is now. So when Reef-World was looking for a Digital Community Officer, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity!
What’s your role at Reef-World and what does that look like?
I’ve been recently appointed as Digital Community Officer so I’m responsible for the management of the Green Fins Hub — our new digital platform (this is not yet launched at the time of writing), for old and new Green Fins members to collaborate and connect. I facilitate and moderate the participation of the members, partners and community collaborators in the hub. Getting them involved in conversations and discussions about marine conservation, sustainable tourism and many more.
What do you enjoy the most about your role?
It would be getting to know and working with all of you! We get to build a community of advocates for sustainable tourism and diving practices. And of course, working with such an awesome and dynamic team!
What one piece of advice would you give to someone wanting to get into the marine conservation sector?
You don’t have to be a scientist to work in marine conservation! We need artists, communications people, engineers — everyone! Volunteer as much as you can, you will meet great people and will have a community to support you in your journey. Very important! Conservation work is not easy so do not forget to enjoy, have fun and give yourself time to rest for the mind, body and soul!
Outside work, what are your hobbies/favourite pastimes?
I’m really into freediving and I go on trips when I can! Also taking care of my rescues, advocating for ‘adopt, don’t shop’ and ‘Spay and Neuter’ campaigns for cats and dogs. Plantita, growing my own vegetables in my small garden and of course, K-dramas :)
What’s your favourite marine animal and why?
Nudis! I’m having so much fun spotting and looking for them in the reef. Not only that, they have rare superpowers called rhinophores (cute tentacle ears) that allow them to distinguish chemical particles in the water, smell food resources — even from afar, threats and potential partners. Plus, they are hermaphrodites and both nudi parents can lay eggs!
What marine animal are you most like and why?
I have to ask my friends this question — and they said octopus! They said I blend in easily, am flexible and good at multitasking.
When and where did you qualify as a diver? What made you want to try scuba?
Summer break of 2017 at Isla De Gigantes, Carles, Iloilo. I was already in my first year studying Marine Biology, so I have to get that license and be able to study corals up close!
Tell us about your most memorable dive…
Don’t have one that is very memorable but, I still remember the feeling of my first dive.
Loved the mixed feeling of excitement, fear and adrenaline!
& one diving destination still on your bucket list?
Can I have two? Tubattaha and Raja Ampat
Star sign and how you express it:
I’m a Pisces, a water sign. The universe must have known that I was born to be a fish! 😂 As a Pisces, I’m a very intuitive person, emotional, creative at times and indecisive. You’ll just never know what’s coming next!
If you could have one superpower, what would you choose and why?
Teleportation! Imagine all the places you could go to!
What’s the strangest injury you’ve ever had?
Don’t have one and not looking forward to having one! Haha
Tell us something most people wouldn’t know about you.
I can sleep anywhere and anytime. I can fall asleep in seconds!