Darlene Reble

𝐌𝐒𝐔 𝐚𝐭 𝐍𝐚𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚 Mindanao State University at Naawan delegates, including Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa and Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero participated in the prestigious 𝐺𝑙𝑜𝑏𝑎𝑙 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑜𝑛 𝑂𝑐𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝐶𝑜𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐷𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑜𝑝𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 held at Ocean University of China in Qingdao, China, from October 24 to 25, 2024. The event, which brought together global leaders in marine science and education, marked a significant milestone in fostering international partnerships and academic collaboration. The conference opened with the 𝐶ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑎-𝐴𝑆𝐸𝐴𝑁-𝐹𝐸𝑁 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐹𝑜𝑟𝑢𝑚 𝑜𝑛 𝐵𝑙𝑢𝑒 𝐸𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑜𝑚𝑦 2024, where discussions focused on sustainable economic growth in the marine sectors and the role of international cooperation in advancing the blue economy. MSUN’s participation at the forum demonstrated the university’s commitment to engaging in global conversations on ocean sustainability and development. On the second day, the 𝑂𝑐𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝑈𝑛𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝐶ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑎 𝐶𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑛𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐶𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑏𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 marked 100 years of excellence in oceanographic research and education. A key highlight of the day was the 𝑶𝑼𝑪-𝑨𝑺𝑬𝑨𝑵 𝑭𝑬𝑵+ 𝑴𝑶𝑼 𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒚, which formalized new partnerships between OUC and ASEAN institutions, including MSUN. This agreement paves the way for collaborative research, student and faculty exchange programs, and joint initiatives in marine science and environmental sustainability. The event concluded with the 𝑂𝑈𝐶-𝐴𝑆𝐸𝐴𝑁-𝐹𝐸𝑁 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑐𝑢𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑛 𝐴𝑐𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑚𝑖𝑐 𝐶𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛, where Dr. Roa and Dr. Espadero actively participated in discussions aimed at deepening ties between Ocean University of China and other ASEAN universities. The discussions centered on future academic collaborations that would benefit both students and researchers in the fields of marine and environmental sciences. MSUN’s participation in the conference reflects the university’s unwavering dedication to tackling global ocean-related challenges and reaffirms its commitment to building meaningful international partnerships in marine research and education, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.

On October 10, 2024, a collaborative meeting was held at the OC Conference Room between Mindanao State University at Naawan and Shinawatra University, formerly known as Metharath University, to further enhance academic cooperation and international partnerships. The meeting was led by Mr. Lester Naces Udang, who introduced Shinawatra University’s mission and vision, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to internationalization and global collaboration. MSUN officials in attendance included Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Gergie A. Ambato, Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Rhoda Perpetua, Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning & Initiatives Frederick B. Cabactulan, Director for International Affairs and Linkages Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director for Research Dr. Ruby C. Gonzales, CESS Dean Dr. Emmylou A. Emperador, and Secretary for the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero. Faculty members from MSUN who serve as Research Fellows in Shinawatra University also participated. During the discussion, Mr. Udang emphasized the importance of building collaborations with institutions across different countries, creating opportunities for student and faculty exchange programs, as well as career services. He highlighted that Shinawatra University is eager to further its partnerships with MSUN, providing a unique opportunity for the university to collaborate with top-tier global institutions. This meeting marks an important milestone in strengthening academic cooperation between the two universities, highlighting their shared commitment to expanding global educational ties and fostering opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers.

Kelly John Robillos, CESS Senator, Mindanao State University at Naawan student, and IIigan City youth leader, represented the Philippines at the Global Youth Economic Opportunities Summit in Washington DC as a member of Opportunity 2.0 Youth. The summit focused on the importance of green skills and the green economy for a sustainable and progressive world. Kelly presented the Local Labor Market Assessment (LLMA) and the Youth Development Alliance in the Philippines, emphasizing their role in creating opportunities and aligning skills training with green sector needs. The USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program’s LLMA, conducted by the Education Development Center in 15 Philippine cities, is a three-step process. First, youth champions from various sectors collect information about the local economy. Second, youth leaders gather data from fellow youth about their interests, goals, and training, employment, and livelihood needs. Finally, both groups analyze the collected data to identify top sectors, markets, and skills training programs for out-of-school youth. With the growing demand for green sector skills, out-of-school youth can play a vital role with proper training and information. The LLMA ensures that youth voices are central to the process through focused group discussions and sensemaking workshops. Youth can influence the sectors and training prioritized, as well as the design and delivery of skills training programs. The LLMA also recognizes youth’s role in disseminating information through communication materials distributed in various channels. By putting youth interests and voices at the forefront, the LLMA ensures that programs are responsive to their needs and context while fostering youth ownership.

The Department of Agriculture – Fisheries Biotechnology Center recently concluded a comprehensive five-day training workshop, Biotechnology 101: Theory, Practice, and Application in Aquaculture and Fisheries, held from September 9 to 13, 2024, at the BFAR National Fisheries Technology Center in the CLSU Compound, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. The workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, including esteemed faculty members from the MSUN School of Marine Fisheries and Technology, Ms. Marnelle B. Sornito and Mr. Emmanuel S. Delloro Jr. Throughout the event, the participants engaged in a series of lectures and hands-on activities designed to deepen their understanding of biotechnology’s applications in aquaculture and fisheries. The training kicked off with a focus on morphology and necropsy examination, providing participants the opportunity to gain practical experience in identifying and analyzing fish health conditions. In the following days, they delved into more advanced techniques, including DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), which are essential tools in genetic research and diagnostics. These sessions aimed to familiarize participants with molecular biology techniques that are increasingly critical in the management of fish populations and the development of disease-resistant strains. In addition to these foundational skills, the workshop also offered hands-on training in gel electrophoresis, a method used to separate DNA fragments, and a bioinformatics lecture, which introduced participants to the analysis and interpretation of biological data. The final day of the training featured a session on primer designing, a crucial step in PCR processes, which equipped attendees with the knowledge to develop primers tailored for specific genetic studies. The event concluded with group presentations, where participants showcased their learnings, followed by the awarding of certificates. Overall, the workshop provided a platform for participants to explore the latest innovations in biotechnology, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to apply these techniques in aquaculture and fisheries. By offering both theoretical and practical insights, the event highlights the importance of biotechnology in promoting sustainable practices and advancing the growth of these industries.

From August 29 to September 3, 2024, Dr. Venus E. Leopardas, along with Marine Biology graduate student Ms. Angela Grace E. Singson, represented Mindanao State University at Naawan at the Summer Course, “Journey Among North Sumatran Mangroves: Mangrove Play Important Roles as Climate Change Solution and Low Carbon Development.” The event was hosted by the Center of Excellence for Mangrove at Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia. The ongoing partnership between MSUN and Universitas Sumatera Utara opened the door for Dr. Leopardas to deliver a highly engaging lecture on “Monitoring Mangrove Biodiversity Using eDNA Metabarcoding.” Her lecture was well-received, highlighting innovative research on how environmental DNA (eDNA) can be used to track and conserve the biodiversity of mangrove ecosystems. Ms. Singson actively participated in the summer course, which provided a comprehensive and immersive learning experience for participants from a variety of cultural and academic backgrounds. This opportunity allowed her to deepen her understanding of marine benthic ecosystems, with a special focus on mangrove forests. The exposure to diverse perspectives and knowledge enriched her appreciation for the critical role that mangroves play in combating climate change and supporting low-carbon development. This experience not only advanced Ms. Singson’s academic journey but also strengthened MSUN’s collaboration with international institutions in promoting sustainable solutions for environmental challenges.

On September 7, 2024, Saturday, a delegation from Mindanao State University at Naawan visited the Research Institute of Aquaculture 2 (RIA2), Thu Duc Center in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The delegation included Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director for International Affairs and Linkages, Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero, Secretary of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, and Mr. Victor Navarro, Director of the Center for Aquaculture Research, Enterprise & Services. RIA2 is a prominent institution for aquaculture research and development in southern Vietnam. It has established productive collaborations with numerous international organizations, including the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), a partner in the Sandfish Project. During the visit, the MSUN delegation was given a tour of one RIA2’s center, Thu Duc Center, by Director Le Ngoc Hanh. The MSUN delegation’s visit aimed to gain valuable insights into best practices in aquaculture, with a specific focus on hatchery facilities and protocols. This visit builds on MSUN’s ongoing efforts to innovate and excel in aquaculture, following their previous visit to the hatchery at Can Tho University. The university is committed to advancing sustainable aquaculture and fisheries on its campus, ensuring the provision of exceptional services and contributing to the broader goals of environmental stewardship and food security.

On September 5, 2024, a delegation from Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) visited Can Tho University in Vietnam, marking a significant milestone in the strengthening of academic collaboration between the two institutions. The delegation includes Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director for International Affairs and Linkages, Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero, Secretary of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, and Mr. Victor Navarro, Director of the Center for Aquaculture Research, Enterprise & Services. The visit, which was organized by the College of Aquaculture and Fisheries (CAF) at Can Tho University, aimed to explore and foster collaboration opportunities in the fields of aquaculture and fisheries research, academic collaboration, and student exchange programs. A highlight of the visit was the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between MSUN and Can Tho University. The MOU solidifies the academic partnership between the two institutions, opening up new opportunities for collaborative research projects, faculty and student exchange programs, and joint academic activities. The agreement is expected to benefit the faculties, staff, and students of both universities, providing avenues for professional growth, research development, and international exposure. Additionally, the MOU focuses on fostering mutual growth and innovation, particularly in the fields of aquaculture and fisheries, areas in which both universities have established expertise. The MSUN delegates were also given the opportunity to tour Can Tho University’s hatchery facilities, where they benchmarked best practices in aquaculture. This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into the operational and research methodologies employed by Can Tho University, which could potentially be adapted and applied to enhance MSUN’s own research and extension services. The tour reinforced the commitment of both universities to shared learning and continuous improvement in aquaculture technologies. With both universities eager to nurture this collaboration, more joint initiatives are expected in the future, including student exchanges, collaborative conferences, joint publications, and cooperative research projects. The partnership between MSUN and Can Tho University represents a step forward in building strong academic networks that will contribute to the global development of sustainable aquaculture and fisheries practices.

On August 27, 2024, the Chemistry Department of Caraga State University made a significant visit to the Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories (REYLabs) at Mindanao State University at Naawan. This visit marked an important step towards enhancing academic collaboration between the two institutions, with a focus on developing and implementing a proposed graduate program in Chemistry at CSU. During the visit, Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Principal Investigator of REYLabs, presented an overview of the lab’s completed and ongoing projects, as well as the innovative initiatives he has led at MSUN. Dr. Rey emphasized the boundless potential of chemistry, stating, “Chemistry has no limits in its area of influence.” He highlighted that despite MSUN’s flagship program on Fisheries and Marine Sciences, there is ample opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration and partnerships across the two different fields. Dr. Rey also encouraged Caraga State University to leverage its position as the leading university in the CARAGA region to foster partnerships with various industries. He noted that REYLabs is already collaborating with CSU’s Chemistry Department on two out of its three ongoing projects, with expectations of further joint ventures in the future. This visit not only strengthened the ties between the two institutions but also set the stage for more collaborative efforts that will benefit both academia and industry in the region.

Mindanao State University at Naawan conducted an inception meeting on July 30, 2024, at the Sea Cucumber Museum for the 2nd Re-Entry Project by the DOST-PCAARRD and the first Re-Entry Project of Mindanao State University at Naawan. The project, titled “Reproductive Biology and Genetic Structure of the beche-de-mer Actinopyga echinites (Jaeger, 1833) in Selected Areas of Mindanao, Philippines,” was led by Ms. Marnelle B. Sornito, a recipient of the Thesis/Dissertation Assistance Program of the same agency and an esteemed faculty of the School of Marne Fisheries and Technology. The meeting gathered key stakeholders to discuss the project’s objectives and methodologies, including Ms. Rita Rowena B. Laquinon, Ms. Precious D. Libit, and Ms. Dianne Therese Dizon from the Institution Development Division (IDD) of DOST-PCAARRD. The meeting began with Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, the Executive Director of DOST-PCAARRD, delivering welcome remarks through a video presentation, followed by the introduction of each attendee. Ms. Sornito, the Project Leader, provided an overview of the project, emphasizing its significance in enhancing the sustainability and management of the beche-de-mer Actinopyga echinites population in Mindanao. Ms. Laquinon, Senior Science Research Specialist from the Institution Development Division of DOST-PCAARRD, presented the monitoring and evaluation guidelines, as well as the rules and regulations for GIA-funded projects. Her presentation ensured that all participants were well-informed about the compliance and reporting requirements for the project’s successful implementation. An open forum followed, allowing participants to discuss the project details and address any concerns or questions. This interactive session fostered a collaborative environment, enabling the exchange of ideas and insights among the attendees. The synthesis of the discussions was facilitated by Mr. Jomar F. Besoña summarizing the key points and action items from the meeting. The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Ruby C. Gonzales, Director for Research, who expressed optimism about the project’s potential to contribute to marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable aquaculture practices. The inception meeting marked the beginning of a significantresearch initiative aimed at improving the understanding and management of seacucumber populations in Mindanao, promising valuable contributions to marinescience and local communities.