The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) hosted a Meet and Greet with GREAT Scholars and Thesis/Dissertation Assistance Program Grantees of Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), Central Mindanao University (CMU), and Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) on July 31, 2024 at the Office of the Chancellor conference room, MSUN.

The Meet and Greet was attended by DOST-PCAARRD personnel, including Director Dr. Mari-Ann M. Acedera and Assistant Director Ms. Adela C. Corpuz from the Marine Resources Research Division (MRRD); Dr. Jesselle S. Laranas, Ms. Rita Rowena B. Laquinon, Ms. Dianne Therese Dizon, Ms. Michelle P. Caparas, Ms. Erliza C. Asilo, Ms. Precious D. Libit, and Mr. Rudolph John M. Cabangbang from the Institution Development Division (IDD); Mr. John Benrich M. Zuniga from the Forestry and Environment Research Division (FERD); and Ms. Fedelia Flor C. Mero and Ms. Geraldin Mae D. Olaer from the Inland Aquatic Resources Research Division (IARRD).

The event commenced with the welcome remarks from Prof. Renoir Marino A. Abrea, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, and an overview of the program from Dr. Laranas, Senior Science Research Specialist & Section Head, HRDS, IDD. Before the event proper everyone has the opportunity to introduce themselves.

The morning session included presentations from Mr. Mark L. Arcilla, Ms. Michelle M. Esling, Ms. Mayenne P. Balaba, and Mr. Romualdo F. Hechanova, Jr., all pursuing advanced degrees in Marine Biology. These presentations highlighted the updates, challenges, and solutions of their respective studies. An open forum followed, facilitating discussion and knowledge exchange among the attendees.

The afternoon session continued with presentations from Mr. Joshua D. Zalsos (MS Aquaculture), Mr. Rejomar A. Galleros (MS Fisheries), Mr. Mhar O. Loquez (MS Plant Pathology), Ms. Nerissa D. Roa (MS Environmental Science), and Ms. Nazma D. Eza (PhD in Environmental Biology). Another open forum provided further opportunities for engagement and discussion.

The event concluded with the presentation of HRDP Programs Ms. Rita Rowena B. Laquinon, Senior Science Research Specialist, where she presented all scholarship and grantee programs by the DOST-PCAARRD. Lastly , Director Dr. Acedera gives her warm message to the participants  and a closing remark by Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, Executive Director of PCAARRD, through a video presentation.

This successful gathering highlighted the ongoing research efforts and achievements of GREAT scholars and Thesis/Dissertation Assistance Program Grantees, helping them in any possible ways for the successful implementations of their study. The Meet and Greet not only celebrated current achievements but also paved the way for future innovations and solutions that could have profound implications for sustainable development and environmental conservation in the Philippines and beyond.

On behalf of the three universities, Mindanao State University at Naawan extends its heartfelt gratitude to DOST-PCAARRD for these opportunities, especially with the financial support and the commitment to advancing research, development, and education. Their continued partnership and investment in our scholars and projects are invaluable, and we look forward to furthering our collaborative efforts to achieve greater scientific and environmental milestones. Thank you, DOST-PCAARRD, for empowering our researchers and fostering an environment of innovation and excellence.