Photo taken by DNSC PIO
MABIDA Project Hosts Capacity-Building Workshop to Enhance Marine Biodiversity Data Access with DNSC
Written by Irene Faith Makinano
Uploaded on Sept. 6, 2023
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.
Other Articles
MSU Gensan and MABIDA: Exploring Collaborative Frontiers in Marine Biodiversity Research
MSU Gensan and ABRAHAM Project 2 MABIDA looked forward to a collaboration. GENERAL SANTOS CITY - Representatives from the ABRAHAM Program visited the Mindanao State University - General Santos City last 01 August 2022 to present the Program Executive Brief. The team, represented by Dr. Cleto L. Nañola, Jr., Program Leader of ABRAHAM, Mr. Leo Manuel Estaña, Project Leader of MABIDA, and researchers Maybelle A. Fortaleza (FishDive), Joemarie J. Lanutan (FishDive), Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan (MABIDA), Geomarie Anne S. Paredes (MABIDA), Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig (MABIDA), and Maria Joselle V. Luzon (MABIDA) were welcomed by Dr. Edna P. Guevarra, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension of MSU-GSC, together with her researchers and staff. The highlights of the meeting were the status of reef fishes on Sarangani Bay, the presentation of the two project components of the Program, and the invitation for scientific collaboration. MABIDA, or Marine Biodiversity Database, aims to create a comprehensive database on Philippine reef fishes, specifically for the regions under the Celebes Sea and part of the Sulu Sea. MSU-Gensan, one of the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Mindanao interested in marine biodiversity and resource management, would be a significant addition to the pool of local experts managing and contributing to the database.
ABRAHAM Project 2: MABIDA Proposes Collaboration with ZSCMST
ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Applied Biodiversity Research for Holistic Advancements in Mindanao (ABRAHAM) Program visited and presented the proposal for collaboration with the Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) on 28 June 2022. ABRAHAM Project 2: MABIDA, or Marine Biodiversity Database, aims to create a comprehensive database on Philippine reef fishes, specifically for the regions under the Celebes Sea and part of the Sulu Sea. ZSCMST and other higher education institutions (HEIs) are encouraged to populate marine data into the database and conduct collaborative scientific activities. The program, represented by Kevin L. Labrador (FishDive), Joemarie L. Lanutan (FishDive), Norjan Charls M. Cabanalan (MABIDA), and Ralph Raleigh P. Dalig (MABIDA), was received by the Dean of Graduate Studies Dr. Oliver Tito, Mr. Angelo Macario, and other officials. The team also paid a courtesy visit to the Officer-in-Charge President of ZSCMST before proceeding with the discussion. Dr. Cleto L. Nañola, Jr., ABRAHAM Program Head and Project Leader, and Mr. Leo Manuel B. Estaña, Project Leader, attended the meeting via Zoom. Dr. Maribelle T. Hanani of MSU-Sulu was also present during the meeting. Highlights of the meeting were the presentation of the two project components of the program, the official invitation for scientific collaboration, and the planned trainings to be initiated by the program.
