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
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.
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.
