UP researchers conduct field survey in Pag-asa Island through DENR-BMB funded project
The Pag-asa Island Expedition Team. (Left to Right, Top to Bottom) Janell Sihay, Dr Gizelle Batomalaque, Maida Biguerras – Pedrosa (UPLB SESAM, Chloie Mae Libatog, Dr Maria Celia Malay, Dr Hildie Maria E. Nacorda (UPLB SESAM), Sophia Therese L. Pamati-an, Marjorie D. Del Mundo, Joan Catherine A. Chua, Raffi Asido (PIRS Caretaker) Fernando P. Siringan (Chief Scientist), John Michael L. Lastimoso, Joseph C. Ragos, Claude Michael G. Salva, Felimon Feliciano Jr (BMB DENR), Raymond Florentino (PIRS Caretaker). Not in photo: Dr Cesar L Villanoy
A team of 15 researchers and staff from UP Marine Science Institute, UP Los Baños School of Environmental Science and Management (UPLB SESAM), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB) conducted a field survey in Pag-asa Island, Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea last February 17-27, 2025. Under the Integrated Research for Biodiversity Conservation and Carbon Sequestration in the West Philippine Sea (BioConSeq-WPS), a DENR-BMB-funded project implemented by the Marine Environment and Resources Foundation, Inc., the activities involved exploring the biodiversity of invertebrates, seaweeds, and seagrasses, assessing the carbon sequestration potential of seagrasses, mapping substrate types, and defining the movement and basic physicochemical properties of the water over the reef flat. The team was assisted by personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Air Force, and Philippine Navy who provided aid and transportation during the fieldwork. The team also extends their gratitude to the Presidential Office for Maritime Concerns (POMC) for their help in facilitating the arrangement of the team’s transportation needs.
