To increase the country’s capacity for ocean research, the UP SYSTEM operates research vessels for coastal and seasonal open ocean expeditions. Among them are the RV Panata and the RV Kalayaan. Their activities range from seismic surveys to oceanographic and plastics research.
Currently, resources are limited due to the vast area of the Philippine waters, but the Institute continuously works for the increase of its research capacity, the maintenance of vessels, and the achievement of long-term sustainability plans for the research fleet: these three vessels being part of the National Academic Research Fleet.
Of the three UP MSI vessels, MV Panata has participated in the most number of projects and expeditions. It has set sail in the West Philippine Sea (2019 & 2021), the Visayan Sea (2019), and the Tubbataha Reef (2019 & 2021). It has now sailed over 250 days since 2019. It goes to WPS yearly (2019, 2021, 2022, 2023) and it has been to Philippine Rise (2022).
The compact Kalayaan is the main vessel used by the Bolinao Marine Laboratory. It explores the waters of Pangasinan for sample collection and field experiments.
RV Mandaragat is a specialized boat used primarily to transport the clay dispersal unit that controls harmful algal bloom (HAB) phenomena by removing HAB cells.
Motor Yacht “Eagle V”
Name of ship
Research Vessel
Type of ship
Navotas
Homeport
Philippines
Flag
Yamaha
Outboard Motor
Research Vessel
Type of ship
BML
Homeport
Philippines
Flag
In Progress
Capt. Reyan S. Maalihan
Master
C/O Abraham Q. Quindoy Jr.
Chief Officer
–
Second Officer
C/E Rolando V. Servallos
Chief Engineer
2/E Ricky I Villaruel
Second Engineer
A/B1 Michael C. Manalo
Able Bodied Seaman
BSN. Leonardo S. Bagtong
Bosun
A/B2 Jeffrey S. Idor
Able Bodied Seaman
Ronel C. Javier
OLR Reynald P. Nietes
Oiler
John Rey M. Nepumoceno
Chief Cook