26/06/2026
BiPSU-BC Faculty Represents Department of Forest Science in International Workshop on Multivariate Statistics and Model-Based Ordination for Ecological Data
The Department of Forest Science of Biliran Province State University–Biliran Campus (BiPSU-BC) strengthened its research capacity in ecological data analysis through the participation of Florante T. Sabejon in the Workshop on Multivariate Statistics and Model-Based Ordination for Ecological Data held on June 22–25, 2026, at the Smart Classroom, Visayas State University, Baybay City, Leyte.
The four-day workshop was organized under the REEFDREAM Project, in collaboration with the University of Hasselt, Visayas State University, the Department of Statistics, and the Department of Biological Sciences. The activity gathered participants from various state universities and colleges, higher education institutions, local government units, and local non-government organizations, providing a meaningful platform for advanced learning, research collaboration, and capacity-building in ecological data analysis.
Sabejon joined representatives from various institutions, including UP Visayas, the University of Mindanao, Caraga State University, Samar State University, Southern Leyte State University, and different departments and units of Visayas State University, along with participants from local government units and local non-government organizations. This diverse participation underscored the importance of strengthening technical competencies in modern statistical tools for biodiversity assessment, ecological monitoring, conservation planning, and environmental research.
The workshop focused on the application of modern statistical modeling techniques for complex ecological datasets. Topics covered included linear models, generalized linear models, generalized linear latent variable models, constrained ordination, concurrent ordination, fourth-corner models, and hands-on exercises using R and the gllvm package. These methods are particularly valuable in analyzing species abundance data, modeling species–environment relationships, addressing overdispersion, interpreting latent ecological gradients, and generating stronger evidence from multivariate ecological datasets.
Through lectures, guided discussions, and practical R-based exercises, participants gained a deeper understanding of how model-based ordination can support more rigorous ecological research. The training emphasized not only statistical computation, but also the proper interpretation of results, including residual diagnostics, species-specific responses, environmental effects, latent variables, and residual correlations among species.
Sabejon expressed his sincere gratitude to the management and organizing team, especially Dr. Norberto E. Milla, Jr., Project Promoter of REEFDREAM; Asst. Prof. Rafael Junnar P. Dumalan, Project Co-Promoter; and the secretariat and research assistants for their excellent coordination, technical support, and commitment throughout the workshop.
He also extended his deepest appreciation to Prof. Dr. Thomas Neyens of Universiteit Hasselt for generously sharing his expertise, knowledge, and practical insights in multivariate statistics and model-based ordination for ecological data. His lectures and hands-on sessions provided participants with a clearer understanding of how advanced statistical models can be applied to real ecological and biodiversity datasets.
The training significantly strengthened Sabejon’s capacity in ecological data analysis, biodiversity research, and species–environment modeling. It also reinforced the value of using appropriate statistical tools in producing rigorous, evidence-based, and publishable research outputs in forestry, biodiversity conservation, and environmental science.
Through this participation, BiPSU-BC continues to advance its commitment to research excellence, forestry education, biodiversity conservation, and evidence-based environmental decision-making. The knowledge and skills gained from the workshop are expected to contribute to stronger ecological assessments, improved research outputs, and more meaningful scientific contributions in support of sustainable natural resource management.
“This learning experience affirms that evidence-based research is essential in protecting biodiversity, guiding conservation, and sustaining natural resources for future generations.”
