Dr. Ariel T. Antinero, a faculty member of the College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Mindanao State University at Naawan, participated in the 7th Mangrove, Macrobenthos and Management Conference (MMM7) as a Poster Presenter and a Member of the Conference Organizing Committee.
Held from July 1–5, 2026, in Ishigaki City, Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan, MMM7 carried the theme “Towards Nature Positive Mangroves.” Since its inception in 2000, the conference series has brought together scientists, practitioners, and policymakers from around the world to share research findings, exchange ideas, and strengthen collaborations on the conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems.
The conference featured leading mangrove scientists and experts from across the globe, including renowned researchers Dr. Jurgenne H. Primavera, Dr. Catherine E. Lovelock, and Dr. Norman C. Duke, among many others.
Their participation underscored the conference’s significance as one of the premier international gatherings dedicated to mangrove science, conservation, and management.
MMM7 was organized by the MMM7 Organization Committee, with primary support from the University of the Ryukyus and the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME).
Dr. Antinero’s participation was made possible through the continuing research collaboration between Mindanao State University at Naawan and the University of the Ryukyus under the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Core-to-Core (C2C) Program, which promotes international research collaboration and academic exchange in fisheries, marine sciences, and coastal ecosystem research.
His participation in the international scientific conference provided an important platform to share MSU at Naawan’s research contributions with a global audience, gain insights from international experts, and explore opportunities for future collaboration.
The engagement also strengthened the University’s visibility in mangrove and coastal ecosystem research while supporting its efforts to contribute to science-based conservation, sustainable resource management, and global environmental dialogue.
