The College of Marine and Allied Sciences has officially launched the 2024 edition of its long-running extension program, Clean Ocean, now in its third year. This year’s initiative aims to educate and inspire students at all educational levels to take action to preserve marine ecosystems and mitigate plastic pollution.

A collaborative effort, the roadshow is supported by the Department of Education (DepEd) – Naawan District, with full backing from the DepEd Division Office of Misamis Oriental, as solidified through a signed Memorandum of Agreement. The initiative kicked off at MSUN during the university’s General Assembly, where the Clean Ocean team introduced the advocacy to the student body.

Following the launch, the team embarked on a series of educational roadshows at partner schools, including Maputi Elementary School, Linangkayan Elementary School, Naawan Central School, Maputi Senior High School, MSUN – Integrated Developmental School, and Naawan National High School. Through engaging learning sessions, an informative video campaign, and interactive trivia games, the advocacy reached more than 4,500 students.

To extend the reach of its environmental campaign, the team launched a YouTube channel featuring Clean Ocean Roadshow content. During PAGPADAYAG 2024, MSUN’s annual monitoring and evaluation event for extension initiatives, pocket calendars embedded with QR codes linking to the advocacy video were distributed. 

Additional Communication, Education, and Public Awareness (CEPA) materials—including Clean Ocean-themed stickers, notebooks, tote bags, and purses—were also given to participants to further spread the advocacy.

The roadshow concluded with the Clean Ocean Poster Making Contest on October 25, 2024, at the MSUN Function House. Co-organized by the Marine Science Society, the contest gathered participants from partner schools, competing in three categories. Winners received cash prizes and exclusive Clean Ocean CEPA materials, sponsored by MSUN and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Naawan.

With this year’s roadshow successfully engaging thousands of students and community members, Clean Ocean continues to strengthen its mission of fostering a new generation of environmental stewards dedicated to protecting marine life and advocating for a cleaner, healthier ocean.

Link: CLEAN OCEAN YouTube Channel

Dr. Wilfredo H. Uy, a distinguished authority in seagrass habitat research at MSUN, recently shared invaluable insights on the "Case Study on Threat Assessment" within marine ecosystems. Serving as a Resource Person for the Multi-Year National Integrated Protected Areas System- Marine Protected Area (NIPAS-MPA) Capacity Building Program, organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB), Dr. Uy illuminated critical issues and solutions.

The training, conducted from April 28 to May 6, 2024, in Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte, drew DENR Personnel from various regions across the Philippines. This collaborative initiative between the DENR, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (US NOAA), and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) exemplifies a unified approach to conservation efforts.

By leveraging the expertise of both local and international experts, this program aims to capacitate DENR Personnel with globally recognized standards and scientific methodologies. Dr. Uy's contributions underscore the importance of integrating research into practical conservation practices, ensuring the preservation of our marine ecosystems for future generations.

MSUN extends gratitude to DOST-PCAARRD for their trust and guidance in projects aimed at sustainability and community development. Together, they continue their journey toward scientific innovation and community empowerment.

Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) took another stride in scientific innovation by signing a Memorandum of Agreement on February 20, 2024, for the project "Impact Assessment of the Program on Refinement of Mangrove Crab Hatchery Technology." Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa and Project Leader Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero spearheaded this collaboration. 

Funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST PCAARRD), the project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of refining mangrove crab hatchery technology, enhancing its adoption pathways, and tracking its impact. 

Success in this endeavor could boost productivity and profitability for crab farmers, thereby bolstering local economies and livelihoods. Additionally, it fosters a network for sharing vital information among policymakers and coastal communities. 

February 20, 2024, marked another milestone for Mindanao State University at Naawan as Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa and Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).

The MOA seals the partnership for implementing the project titled “Environment-Friendly Electrosynthesis of Urea from CO2 and Nitrate Over Rationally Designed Cu-Based Bimetallic Nanocatalysts,” funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) under the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD).

This 3-year project aims to revolutionize urea production by developing a sustainable and cost-effective process using rationally designed Cu-based bimetallic nanocatalysts and combining Carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrate as feedstocks. 

The project aims to synthesize and characterize Cu-based bimetallic nanocatalysts, perform electrochemical measurements, optimize operating conditions, and evaluate energy consumption, environmental impact, and economic viability.

Moreover, this venture underscores international collaboration through the MECO-TECO Joint Research Program between DOST and the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) of Taiwan. The project will collaborate closely with National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan.

This initiative reaffirms MSUN’s commitment to scientific research for sustainable development, impacting environmental preservation and economic growth in the Philippines and beyond. As REY Laboratories at MSUN continues to expand, this project marks a significant milestone and presents a challenge for Dr. Capangpangan.

Dr. Anabelle Espadero is actively engaged in the effort to halt the illegal collection of undersized sea cucumbers, scientifically known as Holothuria scabra or commonly referred to as sandfish, which thrive in our coastal waters. Renowned for their nutritional value and as a dietary staple in various coastal communities, sea cucumbers also play a pivotal role in marine ecosystem maintenance by contributing to environmental cleanliness.

Beyond their ecological significance, sea cucumbers boast medicinal properties and hold a considerable market value due to their expense. Dr. Espadero's dedicated advocacy aims to restore sea cucumber populations to their pre-1970s levels, addressing the crucial need for sustainable conservation measures.

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This commendable initiative not only showcased the students' artistic talents but also served as a powerful testament to the importance of reducing and recycling non-biodegradable waste in our coastal communities.

On December 18-19, 2023, an inspiring exhibit unfolded, showcasing meticulously crafted models of marine invertebrates ingeniously fashioned from recycled marine litter. MRB 132 Marine Zoology students took the helm of this creative endeavor, diligently collecting recyclable solid waste from Naawan's coastal area. With unwavering commitment, they transformed the collected materials into an array of stunning creations, ranging from decorative items to intricate educational 3D models.

Under the thoughtful supervision of Director Mariefe B. Quinones, the activity not only brought environmental consciousness to the forefront but also fostered a sense of responsibility among the participants.

The exhibit drew the attention and admiration of not only the student body but also esteemed faculty members and Barangay Officials. They gathered for a special viewing, acknowledging the remarkable efforts put forth by the students in transforming waste into meaningful and aesthetically pleasing creations. 

The event was participated by various research groups, academic institutions, local government units, and the DENR, hence serving as an avenue for future collaboration in establishing a baseline dataset for marine plastic litter in the country. 

Assistant Professors Lovella R. Calala and Ana Winnielyn J. Galeos were among the participants of the 9-day intensive Training of Trainers on Marine Litter Monitoring in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan from November 6 to15, 2023.  

The training was organized by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) of Australia and led by  Dr. Kathryn J. Willis and Dr. Britta Denise Hardesty.

The activities focused on the current methodologies and technologies in Plastic Litter Monitoring across inland, river, coastal, and sea surface environments.

The College of Marine and Allied Sciences congratulates the esteemed faculty members for the successful and impactful presentation of their research and extension projects during the 2023 Annual Agency In-House Research, Development, and Extension Review and Evaluation with the theme "Transdisciplinary RDE: Strengthening collaborative actions for a resilient and sustainable future". The event was joined by all the colleges, and research and extension groups of the institution, showcasing their respective research, development, and extension project outputs. 

At the end of the momentous event, four faculty members of the college emerged victorious for different categories. Prof. Rey Y. Capangpangan bagged the Second Best Paper for the paper "In Silico Nanotoxicology Evaluation of Engineered Nanomaterials: Bridging the Data Gap on Experimental Approaches for Toxicity Appraisal with Implications to Nanomaterial Risk Assessment and Nano-safety" under the Completed Project category. Ms. Lovella R. Calala placed Third Best Paper for the "Assessment of Seagrass and Seaweed Resources in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental" for the Natural Science category of Completed Research of a Project. For the Completed Extension Project category, the extension project "Building Strategies for Public Advocacy and Awareness of Plastic Pollution from Community Perception" presented by Ms. Ana Winnielyn J. Galeos secured the First Best Paper award. The second phase of this extension project entitled "Clean Ocean Public Forums: Solid Waste Segregation for Households in Coastal Areas", presented by Ms. Dainna Recel S. Pamisa, also grabbed the Second Best Poster. 

These exceptional achievements are proof of the college's dedication to provide quality research and extension projects for the benefit of the community and towards a resilient and sustainable future. 

During this enlightening event, our students received in-depth guidance on various crucial aspects of their academic journey, including University VMGO, Library Policies and Services, Student Ethics and Career Pathways: 

This event brought together a distinguished group of attendees, including dedicated faculty members from CMAS, the Secretary of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (OVCAA), the representative of the Office of the Registrar, and the esteemed Director of the Office of Student Services and Development (OSSD). Their presence added depth and significance to the occasion, enriching the experience for our students.

The College of Marine and Allied Sciences (CMAS) recently conducted a momentous event that brought together students, faculty, and staff in a celebration of innovation, academic excellence, and the symbiotic relationship between the sea and technology. The CMAS General Assembly 2023, themed "Panaghiusa 2023: Harmony of the Sea and Technology," served as a platform to recognize outstanding achievements, introduce the esteemed faculty and staff, and further inspire the academic community to explore new frontiers in marine and allied sciences. 

The event acknowledged the exceptional accomplishments of students who demonstrated excellence during the previous school year's 1st and 2nd semesters. 

The Office of the Vice-Chancellor for Research and Extension and the College of Marine and Allied Sciences jointly organized a lecture on Demystifying the Ecology of Lionfish last July 20, 2023. The guest lecturer, Dr. Bernard F. Castillo II, discussed the lionfish invasion in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Dr. Castillo is a proud MSU alumnus and is now an Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Virgin Islands, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, USA. 

The BS Marine Biology students of MSUN and the trainees from Camiguin Polytechnic State College and Davao del Norte State College attended the lecture and actively participated in the discussion. The event aimed to enhance the knowledge of students and researchers on important topics/areas related to lionfish and to foster collaboration for future research. 

Three distinguished faculty-researchers from MSU-Naawan took center stage, showcasing their innovative contributions to the field during the 6th Organic Asia Congress held at Kauswagan International Convention Center in Lanao del Norte . Prof. Renoir Abrea, our Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, delivered an engaging presentation on the "Sustainable Coral Reef of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte." His enlightening insights highlighted the critical role of healthy marine ecosystems in supporting sustainable food production.

Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, the Director for International Affairs and Linkages, took the stage to discuss "Enhancing Organic Farming through Nanotechnology Innovations." His presentation explored the potential of nanotechnology in revolutionizing organic farming practices, offering promising solutions to enhance productivity and sustainability. 

Additionally, Dr. Wilfredo Uy's presentation on "Community-based Sea Cucumber Farming in Kauswagan" highlighted the significant role of community engagement in promoting sustainable aquaculture practices and supporting local livelihoods. 

The 2-day workshop and training on Python Programming was conducted with immense success. The training which took place on May 18-19, 2023 at the MSUN Function House is organized by the Body of Information Technology Society (BITS). It opened up a world of possibilities in the field of python programming.

The workshop featured a comprehensive curriculum meticulously designed to cover fundamental and advanced aspects of Python programming. The esteemed resource speakers, Engr. Wendell M. Galeos and Mr. Cris Neil Anthonny M. Gulfan, captivated the audience with their wealth of knowledge and real-world expertise. Their insights and practical examples enriched the learning experience, equipping participants with a solid foundation in Python. 

This workshop brought together a vibrant mix of IT students and esteemed faculty members from the College of Marine and Allied Sciences (CMAS). Participants shared a common goal: to delve into the world of Python programming and equip themselves with invaluable skills for the digital era.

Faculty members and selected students of the Information Technology (IT) Department of the College made their presence known in both national and international conferences in IT.

Engr. Wendell S. Galeos participated in the 25th PSITE NatCon, The Silver Anniversary National Convention, in full face-to-face on March 23-25, 2023 at the Widus Hotel and Casino Clark, Manuel A Roxas Highway Zone, Clark Freeport, Mabalacat, Pampanga. This is also when the Department applied for membership to the PHILIPPINE SOCIETY OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY EDUCATORS FOUNDATION, INC. (PSITE)

A month later, on April 27-28, 2023 Engr. Galeos together with Mr. Cris Niel Anthonny M. Gulfan presented their students work at the Regional Conference on Information Technology Education (RCITE) at the Camiguin Polytechnic State College, Mambajao, Camiguin. Their work entitled "Aquatem: Aquatic Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring System" is a capstone project by Jean Axelle Taleon, Derkwin Dela Cerna, Jecilmae Adalid.

On April 29, 2023, Dr. Flordeline Cadeliña presented her work entitled "Web-based Grade School Monitoring Assessment" at the International Conference on the Future of Engineering and Technology (ICFET 2023) held virtually and in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.