MABIDA Project Highlights Marine Biodiversity Database and 3D Technology at NSTW 2024
Written by Irene Faith Makinano
Uploaded on Dec. 1, 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.
Other Articles
DNSC and UPMin Researchers Gear Up for Training on Scientific Diving
Two batches of researchers from Davao del Norte State College and UP Mindanao received a week-long training to reinforce underwater skills necessary for safe and scientific diving. Additionally, a two-day fish visual census training was conducted to apply the underwater skills gained in actual scientific diving work. Dr. Cleto L. Nañola, Jr. (Project Leader) and Dr. Girley S. Gumanao (DNSC Project Staff) are looking forward to future collaborations with other universities and institutions to further the involvement of researchers in monitoring marine biodiversity in the country, especially in Mindanao. We thank Chancellor Lyre Anni E. Murao, PhD of UP Mindanao, DNSC President Joy M. Sorrosa, PhD, and DNSC Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Girley S. Gumanao for their support to this activity. We also thank the mentors Mr. Medel R. Silvosa, Ms. Rezelle B. Sobradil, Mr. Xavier N. Lopez, and the rest of the DNSC Marine Reserve Park staff for assisting the participants tirelessly throughout the training duration.
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.
