CAGAYAN, PHILIPPINES – The DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Region 2 (DA-BFAR 2) is working closely with Partido State University (ParSU) in a DOST-PCAARRD-funded research initiative that explores the role of social capital in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

As part of this collaboration, Dr. Emma Ballad (DA-BFAR 2) and Dr. Teruyuki Shinbo (Kochi University) laid the groundwork in Cagayan by conducting a preliminary survey and stakeholder consultations. The team engaged with Sister Minerva Caampued (Franciscan Apostolic Sisters Director), Leaders of Indigenous People from the Agta Diget Community in Palaui Island, Sta Ana Municipal Agriculturist Richard Albania, and Aparri CENRO Personnel Emerlynn Daliong to gain valuable insights into how traditional Indigenous practices contribute to marine conservation.

Through this partnership, BFAR 2 Regional Director, Dr. Angel B. Encarnacion ensures that the office upholds its commitment to merging scientific research with indigenous knowledge, ensuring that conservation policies are both sustainable and inclusive of local communities.

#CoastalConservation #IndigenousKnowledge #SustainableFisheries #BFAR2 #ParSU #DOSTPCAARRD #KochiUniversity #MarineProtectedAreas