Faculty-researchers from Partido State University (ParSU), Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), and Catanduanes State University (CatSU) gathered for a proposal-making workshop under the Philippine Biodiversity Program. The initiative aimed to strengthen the scientific foundation and enhance the quality of research proposals supporting a coordinated biodiversity inventory across key inland water bodies in the Bicol Region.
The workshop ย conducted last December 9 to 11, 2025 featured experts from the University of the Philippines Institute of Marine Fisheries and Oceanology (UP IMFO). Dr. Ricardo Babaran, UP Scientist and Professor at UP IMFO, highlighted the strategic importance of implementing a region-wide biodiversity inventory and generating standardized baselines essential for policymaking, conservation planning, and resource management.
Prof. Christian James Morales, and Mr. El Andro Aguada Obar, also from UP IMFO, facilitated sessions on proposal structure, biodiversity assessment techniques, data harmonization, proposal budgeting and the application of inland fisheries science in project design.
Researchers from the participating institutions collaborated to align research priorities, refine methodologies, and outline coordinated field activities across major inland water bodies of the region. Discussions underscored the need for reliable scientific data to guide conservation initiatives, strengthen local resource governance, and support long-term management of native species and fisheries resources.
By uniting three state universities along with national experts, the workshop advanced efforts to develop a comprehensive, science-based inventory of Bicolโs freshwater biodiversity. The consolidated outputs from the workshop will form part of the final project proposals to be submitted under the Philippine Biodiversity Program and for funding consideration by various government agencies, reinforcing the regionโs commitment to evidence-based conservation and sustainable resource stewardship.
For ParSU, the collaboration further strengthens its leadership in environmental research, enhances its role in regional biodiversity initiatives, and expands opportunities for faculty-researchers to contribute to high-impact, nation-responsive scientific work.
