Darlene Reble

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.

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.

Mindanao State University at Naawan recently hosted the Monitoring and Evaluation, and Site Visit for ongoing DOST-PCAARRD funded projects on shrimp, mussel, and aquafeeds. The event, held on July 30, 2024, brought together researchers and project leaders to discuss progress and future directions for these vital aquaculture initiatives. The meeting was graced and monitored by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development  – Inland Aquatic Resources Research Division (PCAARRD -IARRD) Industry Strategic Science and Technology Program (ISP) Managers, Ms. Fedelia Flor C. Mero and Ms. Geraldin Mae D. Olaer. The program commenced with welcome remarks from Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa, followed by Ms. Mero who presented the rationale of the meeting, setting the room for a series of project accomplishment presentations. Projects discussed by the respective project leaders and staff included: 𝘗𝘪𝘭𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘔𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪-𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘤 𝘈𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 (𝘐𝘔𝘛𝘈) 𝘛𝘦𝘤𝘩𝘯𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘗𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘌𝘯𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘗𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘦𝘶𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘰𝘥𝘰𝘯 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘚𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘯 𝘗𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘋𝘳. 𝘌𝘭𝘨𝘦𝘯 𝘔. 𝘈𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘨𝘢𝘥𝘰 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭-𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘴𝘵- 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘺 𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘩𝘺𝘵𝘰𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘤𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘨𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘩𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘯 𝘔𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘶𝘮 𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘪 (𝘋𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘯, 1879)𝘋𝘳. 𝘋𝘢𝘯 𝘔. 𝘈𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘨𝘢𝘥𝘰 𝘜𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘍𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘵 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘞𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘚𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘳𝘦𝘣𝘪𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐𝘮𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘱𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘈𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴𝘋𝘳. 𝘍𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢 𝘓. 𝘗𝘦𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘰 𝘔𝘺𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 2- 𝘉𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘌𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘈𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘰𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘤 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘰𝘯-𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘔𝘶𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘭, 𝘔𝘺𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘢, 𝘪𝘯 𝘕𝘦𝘸𝘭𝘺 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘈𝘳𝘦𝘢”𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘧. 𝘒𝘢𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘦𝘭 𝘕. 𝘜𝘣𝘢 𝘔𝘺𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 3- 𝘗𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘥: 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘜𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘕𝘰𝘯-𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘔𝘶𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘭 𝘔𝘺𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘢 𝘢𝘴 𝘞𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘋𝘳𝘺 𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴𝘔𝘴. 𝘙𝘰𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦 𝘛. 𝘗𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘣𝘢 Prof. Renoir A. Abrea, Vice-Chancellor for Research and Extension, concluded the session with closing remarks, expressing optimism for the future of these innovative projects. This marked the end of a productive day dedicated to advancing aquaculture research and development.

The Mindanao State University at Naawan proudly announces that one of its esteemed faculty members, 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒓 𝑺𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒂 𝑴𝒂𝒏𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒕 𝑴𝒐𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒐, has been awarded the prestigious 𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑 𝐹𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑝. Ms. Sandra, a dedicated educator and researcher, became the 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝐹𝑖𝑙𝑖𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑜 𝑡𝑜 𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑒𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑡 ℎ𝑜𝑛𝑜𝑟, standing out among 3,000 aspirants from 12 countries. Ms. Sandra’s journey is a testament to her relentless dedication to research and education. Before embarking on her PhD studies in Oceanography at Texas A&M University, Ms. Sandra imparted her knowledge in Physics and Physical oceanography to Marine Biology students at MSU at Naawan. Although Ms. Sandra’s academic background is rooted in physics, her passion for the coastal zone and its communities guided her research and teaching. Her work at MSU at Naawan ignited a profound interest in oceanography, leading her to pursue advanced studies in this critical field. The entire MSU at Naawan community celebrates her achievement as a Quad Fellow, a fellowship supported by the governments of the USA, Japan, Australia, and India. Her success brings pride to the institution and serves as an inspiration to current students and faculty members. It also highlights the quality of education and research opportunities at MSU at Naawan. We are incredibly proud of her and look forward to her future contributions to oceanography and coastal community sustainability. MSUN stands by her, celebrating her past achievements and eagerly anticipating the impactful work she will undoubtedly accomplish in the future. 𝑶𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒓 𝑺𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒂 𝑴𝒂𝒏𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒕 𝑴𝒐𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒐! For more info visit this website: https://www.quadfellowship.org/2024-quad-fellows

Mindanao State University at Naawan proudly congratulates Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan for receiving the 2024 Philippine Federation of Chemistry Societies (PFCS) Chemhub Technologies Achievement Award for Chemical Research. This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Capangpangan’s significant contributions to nanotechnology, especially in its applications to fisheries and aquaculture. Dr. Capangpangan, the Center Director and Principal Investigator for the Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories and the Center for Microplastics Research and Innovation at MSU at Naawan, also serves as the Director of the International Affairs and Linkages Office. With over 80 published papers, contributions to three books, and numerous presentations at both local and international conferences, Dr. Capangpangan’s career is marked by excellence. His pioneering research has earned him multiple accolades, including the Outstanding Faculty Researcher Award (2023) and recognition as a Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) EPIC Awardee. At MSU at Naawan, Dr. Capangpangan has spearheaded the establishment of the Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories (REY Labs) and the Center for Microplastic Research and Innovation. His research portfolio includes work on microplastics, nanomaterials, computational nanotechnology, and sensor development.  Notable projects involve developing nanomaterial-based sensors for aquaculture and creating sustainable technologies to mitigate microplastic pollution in marine environments. Dr. Capangpangan’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing environmental challenges through nanotechnology highlights his commitment to excellence and innovation. His work benefits both the academic community and provides practical solutions to environmental issues, inspiring a new generation of researchers. Mindanao State University at Naawan takes immense pride in Dr. Capangpangan’s accomplishments and eagerly anticipates his continued contributions to scientific research and environmental sustainability.  𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐃𝐫. 𝐑𝐞𝐲 𝐘. 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐧, 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥-𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧!

Dr. Wilfredo H. Uy and Dr. Emmylou A. Emperador of the ACIAR Sandfish Project, both esteemed faculty researchers of Mindanao State University at Naawan, attended the Asian-Pacific Aquaculture 2024 conference held in Surabaya, Indonesia from July 2-5, 2024. This prestigious international event, themed “Aquaculture – Driving the Blue Economy,” featured technical sessions and industry exhibits of the newest technology from around the world Dr. Emmylou A. Emperador presented her paper titled “Family-based Sandfish Farming: The Case in Northern Mindanao, Philippines.” Her research highlights the innovative approach of involving local families in sandfish farming, demonstrating the socio-economic benefits and sustainable practices that can be achieved through community participation. Her study emphasized the potential of family-based farming to enhance local livelihoods while contributing to the sustainable management of marine resources.  Dr. Wilfredo H. Uy also presented his study, “Growth Performance of Sandfish Holothuria scabra (Jaeger 1833) in a Community Managed Nursery System in Northern Mindanao, Philippines.”This study focused on the growth rates and overall health of sandfish in a nursery system managed by the local community. The findings from this study provide valuable insights into the viability of community-managed nurseries as a sustainable method for sandfish aquaculture, which can lead to enhanced economic opportunities for local communities. The event provided an excellent opportunity for Dr. Uy and Dr. Emperador to meet the entire team of the ACIAR-funded Sandfish Project, including representatives from University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI), Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), Guiuan Development Foundation, Inc.(GDFI), Research Institute for Aquaculture No. 3 (RIA3 ) of Vietnam, and University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) of Australia.  From hosting the International Conference on Responsible Fisheries and Sustainable Aquaculture (ICORFASA 2024) to participating in Asian-Pacific Aquaculture 2024, MSUN continues to lead in aquaculture research, contributing to global sustainable practices and innovative solutions. The knowledge and experience gained through these conferences will surely enhance the university’s research capabilities and contributions to the aquaculture industry.