From July 5 to 10, 2025, Ms. Jessah P. Trillo, DOST-SEI CIP Graduate Research Fellow from the Mindanao State University at Naawan (Environmental DNA Research and Development Center), participated and represented the Philippines at the 49th Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS) Congress held at the Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Congress Centre, Türkiye. 

Ms. Trillo presented the project poster paper entitled “Harnessing Environmental DNA Metabarcoding for Biomonitoring Mangrove-Associated Fish Diversity and Structure in Select Philippine Bioregions”. This study utilizes environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a non-invasive and highly sensitive approach to monitor biodiversity in ecologically significant mangrove ecosystems across Philippine bioregions. By generating baseline data on fish diversity and community structure, the study contributes vital insights for coastal conservation, sustainable fisheries management, and climate adaptation strategies, especially in the face of habitat degradation and biodiversity loss.

This core scientific gathering is designed to promote cutting-edge scientific exchange in the molecular life sciences. It brings together early-career researchers and seasoned experts to share the latest breakthroughs across disciplines such as molecular diagnostics and biotechnology, therapeutics, and marine biology. Furthermore, it comprises inspiring plenary lectures from distinguished researchers working in areas of high topical interest, and a range of themed symposia providing focused updates from leading experts in each field. 

Altogether FEBS Congresses aim to be an exemplary cross-discipline gathering in the molecular life sciences for research presentation, discussion, learning, inspiration and encouragement, with participants leaving with new research knowledge and ideas, and perhaps the beginnings of international collaborations and friendships.