E-Mail IMAGE: The scientific basis for this initiative was led by marine biologist Héctor M. Guzmán, from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI). view more Credit: Sean Mattson On June 8, World Oceans Day, the President of Panama Laurentino Cortizo signed an executive decree that expands the limits of the Cordillera de Coiba protected area, a step that will double the amount of Panamanian marine surface that is under some degree of protection. The scientific basis for this initiative was a multidisciplinary effort led by marine biologist Hector M. Guzman, from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), with the participation of MigraMar Foundation and Panama's Ministry of the Environment (MiAmbiente). This white paper was funded by the Wyss and Mission Blue foundations.