Capacity Building Workshop at SPAMAST Strengthens Marine Biodiversity Initiatives
Written by Irene Faith Makinano
Uploaded on Sept. 15, 2023
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.
Other Articles
MABIDA Project Highlights Marine Biodiversity Database and 3D Technology at NSTW 2024
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Marine Biodiversity Database (MABIDA) Project participated in the 2024 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW), held from November 27 to December 1 at The Atrium, Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City. The event was centered around the main theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan” and the subtheme “Providing Solutions and Opening Opportunities in the Green Economy.” Organized by the Department of Science and Technology, the NSTW served as a platform for showcasing innovations that focus on human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability—the core themes of the science and technology exhibits. Alongside the MABIDA Project, the FishDive Project was also present at the exhibit, contributing to the display of marine science and technology under the ABRAHAM Program. The MABIDA Project captivated audiences with its cutting-edge 3D scanning and printing technology, featuring lifelike 3D models of marine species. Visitors had the opportunity to experience 3D scanning firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of the process and its applications in marine science. Additionally, visitors were introduced to the project’s comprehensive marine database, which catalogs the diverse marine flora and fauna of Mindanao. These innovations highlight the project’s commitment to advancing marine conservation and education while providing tools for the sustainable management of marine biodiversity. Through its exhibit, the MABIDA Project demonstrated how science and technology can drive practical solutions for the green economy, in alignment with the NSTW’s goal of fostering resilience, sustainability, and a brighter future. The exhibit emphasized the transformative potential of marine science and technology, showcasing how these innovations could help tackle environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices in marine ecosystems.
JRMSU and UP IMBIBE Laboratory Explore MABIDA’s Cutting-Edge Marine Research Tools
On October 23, 2024, participants from Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) and the UP Interactions of Marine Bionts and Benthic Ecosystems Laboratory (IMBIBE Laboratory) of the UP Marine Science Institute visited the MABIDA Project. Following a three-day DNA barcoding training organized by the Coral Reef Resiliency and Ecology Studies Laboratory, the group explored MABIDA’s advanced 3D scanning and printing equipment, gaining insights into our cutting-edge methods for marine biodiversity research. Both groups expressed keen interest in contributing to the MABIDA website to enhance our collective impact. MABIDA looks forward to expanding data contributions through its active and committed collaborators, driving research and innovation forward!
