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 projectโs 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. Besoรฑa 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 significant
research initiative aimed at improving the understanding and management of sea
cucumber populations in Mindanao, promising valuable contributions to marine
science and local communities.
