A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Collaborative Research Agreement (CRA) were signed between the Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) represented by its Chancellor, Dr. Elnor C. Roa and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) represented by its President, Dr. Manuel M. Muhi on February 16, 2023 at Dr. Pablo T. Mateo Jr. Conference Room, PUP, Sta. Mesa, Manila.

This partnership is an initiative of Dr. Venus E. Leopardas, MSUN Faculty of the College of Marine and Allied Sciences (CMAS), who is the project leader of eDNA metabarcoding application to faunal biodiversity research in Philippine mangrove ecosystems and Prof. Ruthela P. Payawal, PUP Faculty of College of Science to work on basic and applied research on marine biodiversity in the country. The understanding also aims to widen the scope of partnership to include academic collaboration, student exchange, and capacity-building.

Other officials from both universities attended the signing. From MSUN are the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Prof. Renoir A. Abrea; Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Ms. Gergie A. Ambato; and Faculty of CMAS, Dr. Venus E. Leopardas. PUP officials witnessing the event are the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Emanuel C. De Guzman; Vice President for Research, Extension, Planning, and Development, Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin; Dean of the College of Science, Dr. Lincoln Bautista; Chief of Research Institute for Science and Technology, Dr. Noel A. Saguil; Director of Research Institute for Science and Technology, Dr. Armin C. Coronado; Faculty of College of Science: Prof. Ruthela P. Payawal; and the Head Executive Assistant, Prof. Ann Clarisse M. De Leon.

 

Text by: VCAA Gergie A. Ambato