DORSU Regional Integrated Coastal Resource Management Center XI

𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗖𝗛 𝗣𝗨𝗕𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡!!!

We are pleased to share the publication of a new research article in the 𝐽𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑜𝑓 𝐶𝑜𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑣𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛:

𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗔𝗣 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆-𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗔 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝘂𝗷𝗮𝗱𝗮 𝗕𝗮𝘆, 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀

This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of women actively engaged in community-based mangrove conservation across six barangays in Pujada Bay, City of Mati, Davao Oriental. Using a mixed-methods approach that combined surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the research explored how socio-demographic factors influence conservation behavior and participation.

The findings revealed very high levels of environmental knowledge, highly positive conservation attitudes, and strong conservation practices among women mangrove planters. The study further demonstrated that age, livelihood dependency, education, ethnicity, and years of experience significantly influence conservation outcomes, highlighting the vital role of women in sustaining coastal ecosystems and strengthening community-based environmental governance.

This publication contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting gender-responsive approaches to coastal resource management and emphasizes the importance of empowering local communities in achieving long-term conservation goals.

📖 Published 𝐽𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑜𝑓 𝐶𝑜𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑣𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛: (2026)

🔗 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11852-026-01240-3

Relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 5 – Gender Equality
• SDG 13 – Climate Action
• SDG 14 – Life Below Water
• SDG 15 – Life on Land

Congratulations to the authors and all partners involved in advancing coastal conservation research in Pujada Bay, Philippines.

𝗗𝗢𝗿𝗦𝗨-𝗥𝗜𝗖 𝗫𝗜 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘀𝘂𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆

𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗼 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 (𝗗𝗢𝗿𝗦𝗨), through the 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗫𝗜 (𝗥𝗜𝗖-𝗫𝗜), successfully conducted the 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘀𝘂𝘀 (𝗙𝗩𝗖) 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 on 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟭𝟮-𝟭𝟯, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, at the 𝗗𝗢𝗿𝗦𝗨-𝗥𝗜𝗖 𝗫𝗜 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗯𝗮𝗻 𝗜𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱, 𝗧𝗮𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗻, 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗶, 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗼 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹. The two-day capacity-building activity was organized in partnership with 𝗿𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗳𝘀 and 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 (𝗜𝗘𝗠𝗦) 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆.

The training workshop brought together researchers, faculty members, and coastal resource management practitioners to enhance their knowledge and skills in conducting Fish Visual Census surveys, a globally recognized non-destructive method for assessing reef fish communities and evaluating the health of coral reef ecosystems.

The activity formally opened with welcome remarks from 𝗗𝗿. 𝗥𝗼𝘆 𝗚. 𝗣𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲, SUC President III of Davao Oriental State University, who emphasized the vital role of scientific research, biodiversity monitoring, and collaborative conservation efforts in protecting the country's marine resources. Dr. Ponce highlighted the university's commitment to advancing marine science education and strengthening partnerships that contribute to evidence-based coastal resource management and sustainable development.

Prior to the conduct of the training sessions, 𝗠𝘀. 𝗔𝗺𝘆 𝗚. 𝗣𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲, Center Director of the Regional Integrated Coastal Resource Management Center XI (RIC-XI), delivered emergency preparedness and safety reminders to all participants.

The first day of the training featured lectures delivered by 𝗗𝗿. 𝗔𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗽𝗮 of Silliman University. Topics included the Introduction to Coral Reef Fishes, the Importance of Fish Visual Census, and Fish Visual Census Methodology. These lectures provided participants with a strong foundation in reef fish ecology, biodiversity assessment, and standardized monitoring techniques.

The afternoon session focused on practical exercises such as fish identification and fish length estimation. Participants were guided by the research assistants of Dr. Maypa, namely 𝗠𝘀. 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮 𝗡𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗚𝗮𝗷𝗼, 𝗠𝗿. 𝗗𝗲𝗻𝘇𝘆𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗮, and 𝗠𝗿. 𝗝𝗵𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗮𝗷𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗼, who facilitated interactive learning activities utilizing digital tools and applications such as 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿 and 𝗠𝗣𝗔-𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗠𝗔𝗽𝗽. These exercises enabled participants to improve their ability to accurately identify reef fishes and estimate fish sizes, both of which are critical skills in conducting reliable Fish Visual Census surveys.

On the second day, participants proceeded to Waniban Island, Tamisan, City of Mati, Davao Oriental for field-based training. Under the guidance of marine biodiversity experts, participants conducted fish identification exercises and fish length estimation practices while diving. The field activities culminated in mock and actual Fish Visual Census surveys, providing participants with hands-on experience in applying standardized underwater monitoring protocols under real-world conditions.

Following the field exercises, participants engaged in data management and analysis sessions, where they learned how to organize, process, and interpret field-generated biodiversity data. A field debriefing session also allowed participants to reflect on their experiences, discuss challenges encountered during the surveys, and share insights on improving monitoring practices.

The workshop yielded several significant outcomes. Participants demonstrated improved understanding of coral reef fish taxonomy and identification techniques, enhanced competency in fish length estimation, and increased familiarity with underwater survey procedures. Moreover, the activity strengthened collaboration among DOrSU, Silliman University-IEMS, rrreefs, and other stakeholders committed to marine conservation and research.

The Fish Visual Census Training Workshop successfully achieved its objectives of enhancing technical knowledge and practical skills in marine biodiversity monitoring. More importantly, it contributed to the continuing efforts of DOrSU-RIC XI to build a pool of trained practitioners capable of supporting long-term coral reef monitoring, fisheries assessment, and biodiversity conservation initiatives in Davao Oriental and beyond.

Through sustained partnerships and continued capacity-building initiatives, DOrSU remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing science-based conservation and fostering responsible stewardship of the country's rich coastal and marine resources.

Photos by Siliman University - IEMS and contributors

The Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU), through the 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 (𝗥𝗜𝗖-𝗫𝗜), will conduct the 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘀𝘂𝘀 (𝗙𝗩𝗖) 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 on 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟭𝟮-𝟭𝟯, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, at the 𝗥𝗜𝗖-𝗫𝗜 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝗺, 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗼 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆.

This capacity-building activity is organized in partnership with rrreefs – Rethinking, Rebuilding, and Regenerating Coral Reefs, 𝗦𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 through the 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 (𝗦𝗨-𝗜𝗘𝗠𝗦), the 𝗗𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 (𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗥), and the 𝗕𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘂 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗾𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 (𝗕𝗙𝗔𝗥).

The workshop aims to strengthen participants' knowledge and practical skills in fish identification, underwater visual census techniques, reef monitoring, and marine biodiversity assessment. Through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on training, participants will gain valuable experience in generating scientific data that support coral reef conservation, sustainable fisheries management, and evidence-based coastal resource planning.

By enhancing local and regional capacity for marine ecosystem monitoring, this initiative contributes to the broader goal of protecting and restoring the country's rich coastal and marine resources for future generations.

Together, let us advance marine science, strengthen conservation efforts, and build a community of practitioners committed to safeguarding our coastal ecosystems.

𝗥𝗜𝗖-𝗫𝗜 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿-𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗘𝗧𝗣 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁

The Regional Integrated Coastal Resource Management Center XI (RIC-XI), through Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU), participated in the Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation Activity and the 2nd Inter-Agency Technical Working Group (IATWG) Meeting of the Endangered, Threatened, and Protected (ETP) Marine Wildlife Project held from June 2 to 4, 2026, in Apo View Hotel, Davao City.

The three-day activity gathered representatives from national government agencies, local government units, academic institutions, development organizations, and conservation groups working toward the protection of marine wildlife and critical coastal habitats in Southern Mindanao. Participating institutions included the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), provincial governments, state universities and colleges, conservation organizations, and other project partners.

The ETP Marine Wildlife Project traces its roots to 2022, when consultations, planning workshops, and technical discussions were first conducted to develop a long-term conservation strategy for endangered, threatened, and protected marine wildlife in Southern Mindanao. RIC-XI was among the institutions involved in these early stages, contributing technical inputs and participating in discussions that helped shape the project.

Funded through the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented by DENR-BMB in partnership with UNDP, the project focuses on strengthening the protection and management of coastal and marine ecosystems that support dugongs, marine turtles, and other threatened marine species. The initiative also seeks to improve the effectiveness of marine protected areas and strengthen conservation efforts across Southern Mindanao.

The stakeholder engagement sessions provided a venue for partners to share updates, discuss emerging concerns, and identify opportunities for collaboration. These were followed by the 2nd IATWG Meeting, where participants reviewed accomplishments and agreements from previous meetings, discussed findings from the project's midterm evaluation, and examined proposed revisions to the Project Operations Manual and Annual Work Plan.

Alongside these developments, the project is moving forward with the procurement of a research firm that will undertake baseline ecological, habitat, and socio-economic assessments, as well as conservation area planning for the Marine Key Biodiversity Areas (MKBAs) of Mayo Bay and Pujada Bay in Davao Oriental. The study will generate scientific data needed to support conservation planning, monitoring, and management interventions for dugongs, marine turtles, and other priority marine wildlife species in the project sites.

For RIC-XI, the activity marked another step in a process that began years before project implementation. As conservation efforts continue in Mayo Bay, Pujada Bay, and other priority sites in Southern Mindanao, the Center remains engaged in supporting research, technical collaboration, and science-based resource management aimed at protecting the region's marine biodiversity.

Before sunrise, while many of us are still asleep, fisherfolk are already out at sea.
They face rough waters, uncertain weather, and long hours of work to bring food to our tables. Their livelihoods depend on healthy oceans, yet they are often among the first to feel the effects of climate change, declining fish stocks, and marine degradation.

This National Fisherfolk Day, we recognize the people behind every catch. Their work sustains families, supports local economies, and keeps coastal traditions alive.

The celebration is not only about gratitude. It is also a reminder that the future of our fisheries depends on protecting the waters they rely on and ensuring that fishing communities are heard, supported, and valued.

To all fisherfolk across the country, thank you for the work you do every day.

🎣 𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗸 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲.

𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝗼 𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗲𝘅𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁… 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘁 ‘𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹’?

Every day, someone is being catcalled on the street.
Someone is receiving uncomfortable messages online.
Someone is being touched without consent.
Someone is forced to laugh at jokes that already cross the line.

And sadly, many people still say:
“𝐎𝐀 𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐤𝐚.”
“𝐉𝐨𝐤𝐞 𝐫𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐨.”
“𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐚 𝐧𝐚.”

But since when did making someone feel unsafe become normal?

Sexual Harassment is not about being “𝐭𝐨𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞.”
It is about respect.
Boundaries.
Consent.
Human dignity.

Not every victim will speak immediately.
Some carry the trauma quietly.
Some blame themselves.
Some stay silent because they fear being judged more than the person who hurt them.

And that silence?
It destroys confidence, peace of mind, and sometimes even a person’s sense of safety in the world.

This is why awareness matters.
Because educating people today can protect someone tomorrow.
Because teaching respect can prevent abuse.
Because one voice speaking up can encourage another victim to stop suffering in silence.

To everyone reading this:
𝐁𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬.
𝐁𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬.
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬.

A respectful person does not test boundaries.
A respectful person understands consent.

If you or someone you know is experiencing Sexual Harassment, please seek help and report it to the 𝐕𝐀𝐖𝐂 (𝐕𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧) Desk or proper authorities.

Awareness saves lives.
Silence protects abusers.

𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗶 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗵𝘂𝗯 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻?

What if the future of sustainable oyster farming in Mati City starts with learning directly from successful communities in Davao del Sur?

On May 21, 2026, the project team behind the research initiative entitled 𝗢𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 (𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘇𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲) traveled to Davao del Sur for a reconnaissance survey to uncover practices, technologies, and strategies that could potentially transform oyster farming development in the City of Mati, Davao Oriental.

Led by Dr. Lea A. Jimenez together with Mr. Anthony E. Amores, Ms. Sophia Nadenn A. Aguilar, and Ms. Nikki Jane Manooy, the team explored hatcheries, oyster farming sites, and coastal communities to answer one important question:

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽 𝗮 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁, 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲-𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗶 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆?

With the assistance of the 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 – 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗼 𝗱𝗲𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗿 through Ms. Gracelda Barrida and Mr. Richard Vidal, as well as the 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗴 𝗔𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 through Mr. Demosthenes E. Gomez and Mr. Joje Rojas, the team conducted field visits, rapid community assessments, and environmental sampling activities.

The team also visited the 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶-𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘆 in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, where they observed broodstock and larval tanks, learned about hatchery production systems, and exchanged insights with hatchery personnel regarding oyster culture and management practices.

From floating oyster culture methods to hatchery operations and environmental assessments, the reconnaissance provided valuable firsthand observations that may help shape future oyster farming initiatives in Mati City.

The team likewise visited the 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗶𝘀𝗵𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 under the guidance of Ms. Lorelie Abonales and Ms. Jessele Vidal, where additional rapid assessments and sediment sampling activities were conducted.

This is more than just a site visit.
It is a step toward building climate-resilient livelihoods, strengthening coastal food systems, and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices for local communities.

Could oyster farming become one of the future sustainable livelihood opportunities in Mati City?
The OYSTER Project is now taking the first steps to find out.

𝗡𝗨𝗦 𝗣𝗵𝗗 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗗𝘂𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝘂𝗷𝗮𝗱𝗮 𝗕𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗼 𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀

Strengthening international collaboration in marine conservation and coastal research, the 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 (𝐑𝐈𝐂-𝐗𝐈) through the Davao Oriental State University proudly welcomes 𝐌𝐫. 𝐒𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐍𝐠, a 𝐏𝐡𝐃 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 from the 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐞, for a one-week fieldwork activity in the City of Mati, Davao Oriental.

Mr. Ng is currently conducting field sampling for his dissertation study entitled “𝐃𝐮𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐮𝐣𝐚𝐝𝐚, 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐢, 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐨 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥.” The research focuses on understanding the feeding ecology of dugongs and the ecological significance of seagrass meadows as vital habitats that support marine biodiversity and ecosystem productivity.

The study is being conducted under the supervision and guidance of the Regional Integrated Coastal Resource Management Center (RIC-XI) through DOrSU, led by Dr. Lea A. Jimenez. The collaboration reflects the shared commitment of academic and research institutions toward evidence-based coastal resource management, marine wildlife conservation, and the sustainable protection of coastal ecosystems.

Pujada Bay and the coastal embayments of Mayo continue to serve as important ecological landscapes for marine research due to their rich seagrass ecosystems and diverse marine life. Through initiatives such as this, DOrSU and RIC-XI reaffirm their dedication to fostering scientific partnerships and supporting research endeavors that contribute to the conservation of marine environments not only in the Philippines but also in the broader Southeast Asian region.

The University community warmly welcomes Mr. Sirius Ng and wishes him a successful, safe, and meaningful fieldwork experience in Davao Oriental.

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐆𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐢 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐈𝐂 𝐗𝐈-𝐃𝐎𝐫𝐒𝐔 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗶, 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗼 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 — In a continuing effort to strengthen healthcare services and community resilience in coastal areas, 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗚𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘆 has extended humanitarian assistance through the donation of medical supplies intended for distribution in the 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗶, 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗼 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹. This generous support was made possible through the linkages facilitated by the Mama Earth Foundation, in collaboration with its long-term partner, the 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗫𝗜 (𝗥𝗜𝗖-𝗫𝗜) through the Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU).

This initiative highlights the importance of partnerships in ensuring that essential health resources reach communities, particularly in areas where access to medical supplies remains a challenge.

𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀

The donation from Interhelp Germany reflects a shared commitment to improving public welfare and supporting communities in need. Through the coordination and facilitation of Mama Earth Foundation, the donated medical supplies were successfully delivered and prepared for distribution to identified beneficiaries in Mati City.

Mama Earth Foundation continues to build strong networks with international partners who support community development and humanitarian causes. Through these strengthened linkages, Interhelp Germany recognized the urgent need for medical assistance in local communities and extended its support to help address gaps in healthcare resources.

𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

The successful turnover and planned distribution of the medical supplies is supported by the long-standing partnership between 𝗠𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 and 𝗥𝗜𝗖-𝗫𝗜, implemented through 𝗗𝗢𝗿𝗦𝗨. Over the years, this partnership has contributed to various initiatives focusing on coastal resource management, community capacity-building, and sustainable development.

RIC-XI, through DOrSU, continues to ensure that community development programs integrate both environmental protection and social welfare — recognizing that community resilience is strengthened when both health and livelihood needs are addressed.

𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗯𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗶𝘅 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗶 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆

The donated medical supplies will be distributed to 𝘀𝗶𝘅 𝗯𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗶, ensuring that coastal and community residents benefit from improved access to basic medical necessities. The distribution aims to support barangay health stations and frontline healthcare workers in providing immediate health assistance, first aid response, and basic medical care.

In addition, a portion of the donated supplies will also be allocated to the 𝗕𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘂 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗕𝗙𝗣) in Mati City and the 𝗗𝗢𝗿𝗦𝗨 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗰, further strengthening institutional readiness and emergency response capacity. These institutions play a critical role in safeguarding public safety and providing immediate medical support during emergencies, disasters, and community health concerns.

𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀

Coastal communities face various risks including climate-related hazards, emergencies, and limited access to health services. Ensuring that barangays and key response institutions have sufficient medical supplies is vital for strengthening community preparedness and promoting public health.

Through this donation, 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗚𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘆, 𝗠𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, and 𝗥𝗜𝗖 𝗫𝗜–𝗗𝗢𝗿𝗦𝗨 reaffirm their shared goal of supporting stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities — especially those situated in vulnerable coastal areas.

𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

The partner institutions expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Interhelp Germany for its generosity and humanitarian commitment. The support serves as a reminder that international cooperation and local partnerships can create meaningful impact, especially when assistance is guided by genuine concern for communities.

Mama Earth Foundation and RIC XI–DOrSU likewise reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining partnerships that support community welfare, environmental stewardship, and sustainable coastal development.

𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿

This donation marks another milestone in the continuing collaboration between Mama Earth Foundation and RIC-XI through DOrSU. With strengthened networks and shared advocacy, the partnership remains hopeful that more humanitarian and development initiatives can be implemented to uplift communities across Davao Oriental.

As the medical supplies are distributed to the six barangays, the BFP, and the DOrSU Clinic, this initiative stands as a symbol of compassion, unity, and shared responsibility in ensuring better healthcare access and safety for all.