Building Bridges: MSU-Naawan Faculty Visits UP Mindanao Research Facilities | News Article | Marine Biodiversity Database Project

Building Bridges: MSU-Naawan Faculty Visits UP Mindanao Research Facilities

Written by Irene Faith Makinano
Uploaded on April 23, 2024

On April 23, 2024, faculty and staff from the School of Marine and Fisheries Technology of Mindanao State University (MSU)-Naawan embarked on a productive site visit to UP Mindanao’s laboratories and ongoing research projects. This visit highlighted collaborative efforts in advancing marine science research and technology in the region.

One of the key projects explored during the visit was the Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project. The MABIDA Project presented its cutting-edge unified information system, which serves as an open-access storage platform for marine biology researchers not only in Mindanao but around the globe. This comprehensive system offers an organized and accessible repository of vital marine data that supports scientists, educators, and decision-makers in their research and conservation efforts.

In addition to learning about MABIDA’s digital resources, the MSU-Naawan team had a unique opportunity to engage with the project’s advanced 3D scanners and printers. These technologies play an essential role in enhancing the visualization and study of marine specimens, providing precise, 3D-printed models for research and educational purposes.

This visit solidified ongoing relationships between Mindanao’s academic institutions, fostering a spirit of collaboration in marine research, and underscored the importance of sharing knowledge, tools, and innovations to address the growing challenges faced by our marine ecosystems.

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In an effort to further advance research and knowledge-sharing in the field of marine biodiversity, a two-day "Deep Dive into the MABIDA Website" capacity-building workshop was held at the Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) in Malita, Davao Occidental, on September 14-15, 2023. This event, organized by the UP Mindanao ABRAHAM MABIDA Project in coordination with the Office of Research, Innovation, Development, and Extension (RIDE) at SPAMAST, headed by Dr. Marlyn B. Llameg, aimed to equip faculty members and researchers with the necessary skills to navigate and utilize the recently launched Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) website and information system. During the two-day event, participants were introduced to the various features and functionalities of the MABIDA website. Serving as a treasure trove of marine biodiversity data, the MABIDA website offers researchers a comprehensive resource for species information. Hands-on sessions covered topics such as data entry, data importing and exporting, the use of interactive mapping features, and more. Additionally, participants were provided with insights into how to effectively integrate MABIDA into their ongoing research projects. The "Deep Dive into the MABIDA Website" workshop promises to enhance research capacity and drive forward marine conservation efforts, ultimately benefiting the Philippines' marine biodiversity. As the MABIDA website continues to evolve, the skills acquired in this workshop will play a pivotal role in advancing marine science and conservation nationwide.

Collaborative Training Advances Marine Biodiversity Research at MSU-GSC

In a collaborative effort with Mindanao State University - General Santos City (MSU-GSC), UP Mindanao ABRAHAM MABIDA Project recently conducted a two-day Capacity Building training held on September 11-12, 2023. This event brought together more than 45 participants, including faculty members, project and administrative staff, and students from various colleges within MSU-GSC. Held in coordination with the Office of the Vice-Chancellor for Research, Extension, and Innovation, the workshop aimed to enhance participants' skills and knowledge concerning the Marine Biodiversity Database. The training workshop served as a platform for attendees to gain a comprehensive understanding of the functionalities and significance of the Marine Biodiversity Database in the realm of marine biodiversity research and conservation. The workshop was led by a distinguished team of experts from the MABIDA Project, ensuring that participants acquired the necessary expertise to effectively utilize the database. MSU-GSC has a long-standing commitment to collecting and disseminating marine biodiversity information gathered through its research efforts, demonstrating its dedication to preserving and sustainably managing marine ecosystems in the region. This collaborative effort between UP Mindanao ABRAHAM MABIDA Project and MSU-GSC underscores the importance of knowledge-sharing and cooperation in advancing marine biodiversity research and conservation efforts in Mindanao.

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.

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