FishDive Project Invited as Resource Persons in Monthly Fish Talk Organized by USM Kabacan
KABACAN, NORTH COTABATO - Dr. Cleto L. Nañola, Jr. and Ms. Maybelle A. Fortaleza of CRREST Laboratory served as the resource persons for the monthly seminar series organized by the University of Southern Mindanao Fisheries Society last 28 April 2023. Dr. Nañola discussed the importance of marine protected areas (MPAs) in the country as means of managing our coastal and marine resources, while Ms. Fortaleza presented what is currently known about the marine fish diversity in Davao Gulf. Both presentations include data from the research projects conducted by CRREST Laboratory in Mindanao, particularly in Davao Gulf. The seminar was attended by 150 BS Fisheries students and faculty members. We are grateful to the College of Agriculture Dean Dr. Julius Jerome Ele, Dr. Mary Joy Cañolas, Ma’am Leonila Papalid, and Sir Stephen Dave Dupo for the warm welcome and fruitful discussion in USM Kabacan. Both universities will also enter a Memorandum of Understanding focused on training and capacity building activities for the BS Fisheries faculty and students through the DOST-funded ABRAHAM: FishDive Project.
"Our Daily Fish" Fisheries in the Philippines - Past, Present, and Future
The UP Mindanao Office of Research in partnership with the Coral Reef Resiliency and Ecology Studies (CRREST) Laboratory organized an afternoon of fruitful discussions on the historical records, status, and future directions of reef fish diversity in the Philippines. The discussions were led by renowned experts: Dr. Kent Carpenter of the Old Dominion University, Dr. Cleto L. Nañola Jr. of the University of the Philippines Mindanao, Dr. Richard Muallil of the Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi, and Academician Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos of the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute. The event was attended by students, partner institutions, and government agencies in Mindanao which are hoped to continue the efforts of acquiring new information and knowledge transfer in the region through collaborative research endeavors. As an initiative to this collaboration, we had a soft launching of the book — “Data Collection and Analyses for Reef Fish Biology” which was edited by our lab head Dr. Cleto L. Nañola Jr. and CRREST researcher Maybelle Fortaleza. The book will serve as an avenue to streamline protocols and methods on studying reef fish biology and to guide beginners in starting their own independent research.
DOST-PCAARRD Heads Visit UP Mindanao to Monitor Progress of ABRAHAM Program
The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) heads, Dr. Mari-Ann M. Acedera and Ma. Adela C. Corpuz, recently visited the University of the Philippines (UP) Mindanao to monitor the progress of the ABRAHAM Program. The ABRAHAM Program, a three-year project being implemented in partnership with UP Mindanao, aims to study and understand the biodiversity of marine life in the Philippines, with a focus on Mindanao. Despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the program has made significant progress in its research and implementation. During their visit, the DOST-PCAARRD heads were given a tour of the CRREST Laboratory where the program is being implemented. They were able to see the equipment being used in the research and the progress that has been made so far. Dr. Acedera expressed her satisfaction with the progress of the program, commending the researchers for their dedication and hard work. She also emphasized the importance of studying marine biodiversity, particularly in the Philippines, which is home to some of the world's richest marine ecosystems. The ABRAHAM Program is expected to contribute to the development of sustainable and science-based policies for the protection and management of marine biodiversity in the country. With the support of DOST-PCAARRD, the program aims to provide valuable insights and data that can be used to promote the conservation and preservation of the Philippines' marine resources. The visit of the DOST-PCAARRD heads highlights the government's commitment to supporting scientific research and development in the country. Through partnerships with leading academic institutions like UP Mindanao, the government aims to drive progress and innovation that can contribute to the sustainable development of the Philippines.
MABIDA at NSTW: Showcasing Project Outputs
PASAY CITY - The Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project participated during the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) Exhibit organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) last 23-27 November 2022 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City, Metro Manila. With the theme: “Agham at Teknolohiya: Kabalikat sa Maunlad at Matatag na Kinabukasan,” NSTW returns to a face-to-face setup after holding the celebration in a virtual format for two years, aiming to bring Science, Technology, and Innovations closer to the people. The project, represented by Mr. Leo Manuel B. Estaña, Project Leader of MABIDA, and researchers Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan, Geomarie Anne S. Paredes, and Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig, were present as exhibitors during the week-long event. The exhibit featured the two project components of the ABRAHAM Program, samples of 3D-printed reef fishes for the fish museum, and the Marine Biodiversity Database, which is continuously being improved and developed. DOST-PCAARRD, the monitoring agency of the ABRAHAM Program, invited the MABIDA Project, along with other projects, to showcase the current development and outputs of these government-funded projects that are aimed at the advancement of Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources management in the country. Other agencies of DOST were also present to exhibit the research and development (R&D) outputs, as well as innovative products and services developed.
Ceremonial MOA Signing Marks Collaborative Milestone for MABIDA Project
Davao City, Philippines - On February 24, 2023, a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing between several partner Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and UP Mindanao, representing the Applied Biodiversity Research for the Holistic Advancements in Mindanao (ABRAHAM) MABIDA Project, also known as the Information System for Marine Fishery Morphology and DNA Sequence in Mindanao, took place at the UP Mindanao Center for Advancement of Research in Mindanao. The event, which coincided with the "Our Daily Fish: Kapehan Talks on Reef Fish Diversity & Book Launching of the Data Collection and Analysis for Reef Fish Biology," aimed to strengthen the educational and scientific cooperation among the involved parties and establish a solid foundation for collaborative efforts in marine conservation and research. The in-person event brought together renowned speakers, officials from partner HEIs, and honorable personalities in marine conservation and research. Dr. Kent Carpenter of Old Dominion University, Dr. Cleto L. Nañola, Jr. of UP Mindanao, Dr. Richard Muallil of Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi, and Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos of the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute were among the notable speakers. The executed MOAs cemented the cooperation between UP Mindanao, which represented the ABRAHAM Program Projects FishDive and MABIDA, and the partner HEIs. The MOA, more specifically named as Supplemental MOA for Educational and Scientific Cooperation, specified the duties, responsibilities, effectivity and duration, technicalities, and expectations of all parties involved, guaranteeing a coherent and collaborative relationship. Representatives from numerous HEIs were present, both virtually and in person, for the signing of the MOAs. Partner HEIs were MSU General Santos City, Davao Oriental State University, Davao del Norte State College, Southern Philippines Agri-business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology, MSU Sulu, MSU Tawi-Tawi, and Jose Rizal Memorial State University. The combined effort and dedication of these institutions will promote knowledge sharing, joint research projects, and capacity-building activities, thus ultimately developing a more comprehensive understanding of reef fish biology and conservation in Mindanao.
Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Website Soft Launched to Increase Marine Conservation Efforts
Davao City, Philippines - Bidang-Bida sa MABIDA, the soft launch ceremony of the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Website, was conducted at the UP Mindanao Administration Building Lorenzo Hall on May 22, 2023. The event, organized by the Applied Biodiversity Research for Holistic Advancements in Mindanao (ABRAHAM) MABIDA Project in collaboration with the UP Mindanao Office of Research, coincided with the “Internal Day for Biological Diversity” and gathered distinguished in-person visitors and virtual attendees from various institutions and organizations. The MABIDA Website, accessible through the URL 'https://mabida.upmin.edu.ph', marks an important step forward in the protection and knowledge of marine biodiversity in Mindanao. The website features a large amount of data, including species profiles, habitat information, and environmental characteristics, which will be updated and enhanced on a regular basis by ABRAHAM Program FishDive Project members and collaborating partner institutions. The website envisions to provide a comprehensive and user-friendly resource for scientists, researchers, and policymakers to obtain essential data about marine ecosystems. The soft launch event witnessed a diverse array of participants, both physically present and joining virtually. Notable in-person attendees included Dr. Mari-Ann M. Acedera, the Director of DOST Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST PCAARRD) Marine Resources Research Division, and Mrs. Ma. Adela Corpuz, the Senior Science Research Specialist of DOST PCAARRD Marine Resources Research Division. Notable guests who joined virtually included Mr. Jaypee G. Trinidad of DOST-PCAARRD and faculty members from the Southern Philippines Agri-business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology. The event also welcomed faculty members and researchers from partner Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), namely Davao del Norte State College, Davao Oriental State University, and Mindanao State University General Santos City. Representatives from UP Mindanao, including officials, staff, and students, were also present, thus underscoring the university's commitment to marine conservation and research. The extensive involvement and partnership of these institutions and DOST PCAARRD shall provide a solid foundation for future marine studies and initiatives. ABRAHAM FishDive Project Leader Dr. Cleto L. Nañola, Jr. introduced the audience to the ABRAHAM Program, the mother project of the FishDive Project and the MABIDA Project. Thereafter, ABRAHAM MABIDA Project Leader Leo Manuel B. Estaña, MSc gave a more thorough introduction of the MABIDA Project to help condition the audience as MABIDA Project Technical Specialists Geomarie Anne S. Paredes and Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan subsequently led a live demonstration to showcase the key features and functionalities of the MABIDA Website. Features showcased were the (1) Matching and Alignment, (2) Search Database, and (3) the MABIDA Website Interactive Map. The Matching and Alignment feature is intended to help with the taxonomic identification of samples supplied by website users. Meanwhile, the Search Database feature allows users to manually search and traverse the MABIDA Website's data repository of marine fisheries datasets supplied by partner HEIs and other collaborating agencies. Users can also use the MABIDA Website Interactive Map to see the numerous locations where the marine fishery datasets were collected. Future additions to this interactive map will include spatial overlay of various thematic maps relevant to marine science. Dr. Nañola urged the collaborating partner HEIs and agencies to polish and prepare the datasets that they will share and upload to the MABIDA Website, as these records will be used to improve the scientific community's ability to manage and protect the Mindanaon marine environment. In addition, Dr. Acedera of DOST PCAARRD stated that the MABIDA website will promote a more collaborative space for scientific cooperation in marine resource research and development, paving the way for more effective efforts to protect and understand the Philippine marine environment and resources. As the website becomes fully operational in the coming months, it is expected to attract a wider audience, including scientists, students, and marine enthusiasts alike.
MABIDA Project Hosts Capacity-Building Workshop to Enhance Marine Biodiversity Data Access with DNSC
The MABIDA Project, in partnership with Davao Del Norte State College (DNSC), conducted a capacity-building workshop titled “Deep Dive into the MABIDA Website” on September 6, 2023. Dr. Girley S. Gumanao, Vice President for Academic Affairs at DNSC, actively participated alongside faculty members, researchers, and representatives from the DNSC Biodiversity Museum. The event aimed to equip participants with essential skills for the effective utilization of the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) website and information system. DNSC recognizes the unique importance of this initiative, as Mindanao has long been known for its rich marine biodiversity yet remains one of the least explored regions in the Philippines. The workshop represented a concerted effort to address this gap by enhancing the capacity of individuals and organizations in Mindanao to access and utilize marine biodiversity data and resources. The workshop included comprehensive training on using the MABIDA website, interactive sessions with hands-on practice, and insights from experts in the field. These activities were designed to provide participants with a thorough understanding of the website's functionalities and how to effectively leverage the available marine biodiversity information. Overall, the collaboration between the MABIDA Project, DNSC, and other supporting HEIs underscores a shared commitment to marine biodiversity preservation and exploration in Mindanao. It also points to exciting possibilities for future research, conservation efforts, and educational initiatives aimed at further protecting and studying the region’s unique marine ecosystems.
Capacity Building Workshop Empowers DOrSU Participants in MABIDA Website Utilization
The "Deep Dive into the MABIDA Website" capacity building workshop was successfully conducted at Davao Oriental State University on August 16-17, 2023, as part of the ABRAHAM MABIDA Project's ongoing initiatives. In collaboration with partner agencies and higher education institutions, the workshop was designed to equip faculty members and researchers with essential skills in effectively utilizing the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) website and information system. The Davao Oriental State University played a significant role in this capacity-building initiative, as the participating faculty members and researchers engaged in intensive training sessions. The workshop fostered a dynamic learning environment, enabling participants to explore various features of the MABIDA website and gain hands-on experience with its functionalities. Through interactive sessions, participants were able to grasp a practical understanding of the website's capabilities, equipping them to make significant contributions to the advancement of marine biodiversity research and conservation within the region. This workshop highlights our steadfast dedication to fostering knowledge exchange and facilitating informed marine resource management practices for a sustainable future.
CRREST Soft-Launches Book on Reef Fish Biology and Hosts Signing of MOA for Marine Biodiversity Database Project
The UP Mindanao Office of Research, in partnership with the Coral Reef Resiliency and Ecology Studies (CRREST) Laboratory, organized a successful afternoon of discussions on reef fish diversity in the Philippines. The event was held on February 24, 2023, and attended by students, partner institutions, and government agencies in Mindanao. Led by renowned experts in the field, the discussions covered the historical records, status, and future directions of reef fish diversity in the Philippines. As an initiative towards collaboration, the event also featured a soft launching of the book titled "Data Collection and Analyses for Reef Fish Biology." Edited by CRREST researcher Maybelle A. Fortaleza and laboratory head Dr. Cleto L. Nañola, Jr., the book aims to guide beginners in conducting independent research and streamline protocols and methods in studying reef fish biology. The event also marked a significant milestone for the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project. The project held a ceremonial memorandum of agreement signing with partner higher education institutions during the event, signifying the commitment of partner institutions to support the project and collaborate in its implementation. The MABIDA Project aims to create a comprehensive database of marine biodiversity in the Philippines, providing critical information for conservation and management efforts. The event was a significant step towards the development of collaborative research endeavors and knowledge transfer in the region, and the organizers hope to continue their efforts in acquiring new information and conducting further research on reef fish diversity and marine biodiversity in the Philippines.
Researchers from the MABIDA Project Engage in Two-Day Training on 3D Scanning and Printing
DAVAO CITY - Researchers from the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project attended a two-day training on 3D Scanning and Printing last 08-09 December 2022 at the MABIDA Laboratory, CSM, UP Mindanao, Davao City. As part of the package for the procured equipment for 3D fabrication, training on the usage of the equipment was conducted and attended by the researchers from the MABIDA Project. Engr. Joseph Maggay of OmniFab Inc. shared his expertise in 3D scanning and printing. Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan, Geomarie Anne S. Paredes, Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig, and Ace Niño B. Guieb were present during the training. Aside from the Marine Biodiversity Database being developed, one of the objectives of the MABIDA Project is to generate 2D and 3D models of the representative species of Mindanao marine biodiversity and establish 3D Museums and Exhibits, raising knowledge and awareness of our marine resources.
Hands-on Training on Capillary Sequencing with PGC Mindanao
Two researchers of CRREST Laboratory, Ms. Joemarie Lanutan and Mr. Kevin Labrador, underwent hands-on training on capillary sequencing conducted by the Philippine Genome Center Mindanao last 18 November 2022. The training introduced concepts and techniques that feed towards the DNA barcoding capabilities of CRREST. Services offered by PGC Mindanao and how these can be utilized by CRREST and its partners were also discussed. The partnership between CRREST and PGC Mindanao was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding through the FishDive Project of the DOST-funded ABRAHAM Program. Linked by common scientific interests to improve the state of omics research in Mindanao, both parties aim to cooperate and exchange ideas on the application of omics to study the marine biodiversity of the region.
3D Scanning and Fabrication by MABIDA Project for NSTW Exhibit Preparation
DAVAO CITY - The Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project conducted 3D Scanning and Fabrication activities as part of the preparations for the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) Exhibit from 27-28 October and 11-16 November 2022 at the USEP College of Technology in Obrero, Davao City. MABIDA has coordinated with USeP DigiHub FabLab on using their equipment and facilities for 3D scanning and 3D printing/fabrication. Reef fishes bought from the market served as inputs. Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan, Geomarie Anne S. Paredes, Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig, and Ace Niño B. Guieb of MABIDA were present during the activities. Ms. Ai Escalante, Ms. Jovelyn Oblianda, and Mr. Amiel Marata of DigiHub FabLab assisted them. The team featured the outputs from the 3D fabrication activities in the NSTW Exhibit held at the World Trade Center, Pasay City, Metro Manila, on November 23-27, 2022.
DNSC & MABIDA: Advancing Biodiversity Collaboration
PANABO CITY - The Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project visited the Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) on 30 September 2022. The team, represented by Mr. Leo Manuel B. Estaña, Project Leader of MABIDA, Mr. Jon Henly O. Santillan, Project Staff, and researchers Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan, Geomarie Anne S. Paredes, Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig, and Maria Joselle V. Luzon, were received by College President Dr. Joy M. Sorrosa, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Girley S. Gumanao, Director for Research and Development Mr. Mark Ronald S. Manseguiao, and other staff. The meeting was initiated to provide an update on the status of the database being developed, collect feedback for future improvements, align with the plans and future activities of the project, and discuss the turnover of the signed Memorandum of Agreement between DNSC and UP Mindanao ABRAHAM MABIDA Project. ABRAHAM Project 2: MABIDA, or Marine Biodiversity Database, aims to collaborate with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) around Mindanao to create a comprehensive database on Philippine reef fishes, specifically for the regions under the Celebes Sea and part of the Sulu Sea. DNSC and other HEIs have committed to providing the necessary information and support to materialize this goal.
MABIDA Project: Drone Mapping for Coastal Management in Mabini Protected Landscape and Seascape
DAVAO CITY - Researchers of the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project conducted a drone mapping activity at a portion of the Mabini Protected Landscape and Seascape in Mabini, Davao de Oro last 29 September 2022. Present during the activity were Mr. Christian Japson, a licensed drone pilot, and researchers Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan, Geomarie Anne S. Paredes, Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig, and Maria Joselle V. Luzon of MABIDA. As one of the key protected areas in the Davao Region, the drone mapping activity conducted around the coastal areas of the Mabini Protected Landscape and Seascape aims to collect data (aerial imageries) for subsequent processing into maps and 3D models that could potentially aid in the management of the area. Coordinated with the local government unit (LGU) of Mabini, the team ensures that the output of the said activity will be shared and featured on the Marine Biodiversity Database.
MABIDA Project Engages NEMSU in Marine Biodiversity Collaboration
DAVAO CITY - ABRAHAM Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project presented the second component of the ABRAHAM Program and the invitation for scientific collaboration to North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) on 28 September 2022. Present during the meeting were Mr. Leo Manuel B. Estaña, Project Leader of MABIDA, and researchers Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan, Geomarie Anne S. Paredes, Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig, and Maria Joselle V. Luzon of MABIDA. Ms. Amor Rojas-Salinas, a faculty member of NEMSU-Lianga Campus, represented NEMSU. The MABIDA team discussed the project's objectives, outputs, and details of the partnership. They also presented the features of the database and website being developed during the meeting. Ms. Rojas-Salinas expressed her interest in the said partnership and hoped for a strong collaboration in the future. ABRAHAM Project 2: MABIDA, or Marine Biodiversity Database, aims to collaborate with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) around Mindanao to create a comprehensive database on Philippine reef fishes, specifically for the regions under the Celebes Sea and part of the Sulu Sea. NEMSU, one of the HEIs in Mindanao interested in marine biodiversity and resource management, is highly invited and encouraged to populate the database and conduct collaborative scientific activities.
MABIDA Project: Drone Mapping at Pawikan Sanctuary in Davao City
DAVAO CITY - Researchers of the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project conducted a drone mapping activity at the Pawikan Sanctuary Sanctuary in Aboitiz Cleanergy Park, Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City last 27 September 2022. During the activity, Mr. Christian Japson, a licensed drone pilot, and researchers Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan and Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig of MABIDA were present. As one of the protected areas in Davao that serve as a sanctuary for pawikans and other rare bird species, the drone mapping activity conducted around the coastal areas of the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park aims to collect data (aerial imageries) for subsequent processing into maps and 3D models that could potentially aid in the management of the area. Coordinated with the Aboitiz Power Corporation, the team ensures that the output of the said activity will be shared and featured on the Marine Biodiversity Database.
MABIDA Project: Photogrammetry Training and Year-End Meeting 2022
DAVAO CITY - Research personnel of the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project attended a Photogrammetry Training and conducted the Year-End Meeting at Lispher Inn, Davao City from 24-25 September 2022. Mr. Ley Meynard G. Opeña shared his expertise in Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry as a resource person for the Basic Photogrammetry Training on 24 September 2022. Mr. Leo Manuel B. Estaña, Project Leader of MABIDA, Dr. Ritchie Mae T. Gamot, Project Staff, and researchers Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan, Geomarie Anne S. Paredes, and Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig were present during the training. The training aimed to equip the research personnel with skills and knowledge in Remote Sensing applications, especially in aerial and object photogrammetry. Furthermore, the MABIDA Project conducted a year-end meeting and planning for the second year of project implementation on 25 September 2022. All personnel under the project were present, on-site and online. The meeting aimed to discuss the project's future activities and ensure the timely completion of the project deliverables.
