This study investigates the effectiveness of different management regimes in the marine protected areas (MPAs) around the coast of the Philippines. It assesses how the MPAs are performing, from both an environmental and a social perspective, and finds out what constitute the key features of a successful management scheme. It finds that the type of institution in charge of an MPA makes little difference to its effectiveness. Instead, it finds that good leadership, adequate manpower & funds, and the provision of sustainable livelihoods are the key. The study suggests a number of ways in which community involvement in MPA management can be strengthened and highlights the need for community requirements to be taken fully into account in any MPA action plan.