In an effort to support coastal ecosystem restoration, Southern Leyte State University – Bontoc Campus conducted a rapid area assessment in Himo-aw, Hilongos, Leyte, on January 23, 2025. The assessment was carried out by resident divemaster Mr. Ryan Tomol and Marine Biologist Ms. Liela Bejel in response to a request from the Foundation for These Abled Persons Inc. under its Life Giving Forest e.V. initiative.

The foundation seeks to rehabilitate and enhance coastal resilience by restoring mangrove forests, which play a crucial role in mitigating climate change, preventing coastal erosion, and providing habitat for marine life.

During the site inspection, Mr. Tomol noted that the area experiences regular tidal inundation—a key factor for mangrove survival. However, he also observed that the soil in the area is predominantly sandy, which poses a challenge for mangrove establishment.

“We should consider planting the right mangrove species, esp those that are able to thrive in sandy soil. Alternatively, beach forest species may also be introduced in these areas.” he explained.

The results of this assessment will serve as the basis for determining the best approach to rehabilitate the area while ensuring long-term ecological sustainability. Further studies and consultations with environmental experts may be necessary to explore viable solutions that align with the foundation’s conservation goals.

This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 15: Life on Land, SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Southern Leyte State University – Bontoc Campus (SLSU-BC) received a boost in its environmental research and education efforts as the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) turned over water quality testing instruments, namely during a demonstration event held at the SLSU-BC SSC Hall on January 22, 2025.

The recent donation of advanced water quality testing instruments, including the Hanna Multiparameter Meter (HI9829), Marine Master Multiparameter Parameter (HI97115), and a Handheld Colorimeter, along with various reagents, solutions, and disposable apparatus, significantly enhances the campus’s capacity for environmental monitoring. These state-of-the-art instruments are designed to measure critical water quality parameters such as pH, chlorine, ammonia, nitrates, phosphates, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity.

Their applications extend across multiple fields, including drinking water safety, wastewater analysis, aquaculture management, and broader environmental assessments. By integrating these tools into research and academic initiatives, the campus can strengthen its efforts in safeguarding local water resources, ensuring sustainability, and promoting scientific excellence in water quality management.

The turnover ceremony was led by EDF consultants Ms. Reana Jean Cuevas, Ms. Honey Grace Bayron, Mr. Ariel Culpa, and Ms. Pauline Gabrielle Fernandez. They were joined by representatives from Coast4C, a partner Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), including Mr. Cesario P. Partuza (Community Organizer/SLTE Team Leader) and Mr. Diosdado P. Tabugon (Local Field Technician). The event also saw the participation of Ms. Terre Virna Tanquezon, representing the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Saint Bernard, Southern Leyte, underscoring the collaboration between environmental groups, academia, and local authorities.

Campus Director Gladys L. Pascual said, “Beyond academic research, these instruments will also be beneficial in environmental monitoring and policymaking. Local government units and civil society organizations can use the data collected to identify pollution sources, enforce environmental regulations, and promote sustainable water management practices. This aligns with the broader goals of conservation and resilience-building in the face of environmental challenges”.

This initiative reflects a shared commitment to water conservation and sustainability, equipping SLSU-BC with the tools needed to support scientific research and community-based environmental protection.

This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG6 Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG13 Climate Action, SDG14 Life Below Water, SDG15 Life on Land and SDG17 Partnerships for the goals.

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) – Bontoc Campus has partnered with the Department of Science and Technology-Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST-PSTO), Southern Leyte to launch an innovative project aimed at boosting sustainable aquaculture and providing new livelihood opportunities for local fishing communities.

The initiative, titled “Enhancing Community-Based Sea Cucumber Ranching for Sustainable Development,” was officially formalized on January 14, 2025, during the SPEED SL: 2025 PSTO Southern Leyte Stakeholders Forum at Coastal Gatherings, Brgy. Isagani, Maasin City, Southern Leyte.

The partnership was represented by SLSU-Bontoc Campus Director Gladys L. Pascual and key officials from DOST. This collaborative effort seeks to explore sea cucumber ranching as a sustainable and profitable fishing activity, ensuring both marine conservation and economic resilience for local fisherfolk.

The project is part of SPEED SL, which stands for STI (Science, Technology, and Innovation) Programs to Enhance Economic Development of Southern Leyte. This program takes a comprehensive approach to development, focusing on industry advancement, disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), economic growth, sociopolitical stability, and human resource development (HRD).

Campus Director Gladys L. Pascual said, “Sea cucumber fetch high market value due to its combined pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical and nutraceutical benefits. Its unregulated extraction may result in depletion of wild stock, hence the materialization of this project is anticipated to contribute towards replenishment of natural population”.

During the event, Mr. Ramil Uy, Provincial S&T Director of PSTO Southern Leyte, officially turned over the seed grant to help fund the project’s implementation. The ceremony was also attended by Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña, Regional Director of DOST-8, Vice Governor Hon. Rosa Emilia “Milai” Gaviola Mercado, SLSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES) Francis Ann Sy, and Maasin City Councilor Mikhael Leonardo “Mikee” Mercado.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable fisheries, demonstrating the power of scientific research, government support, and community collaboration in driving economic growth and environmental stewardship.

This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 14 Life Below Water, SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals; and SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Southern Leyte State University – Bontoc Campus, in partnership with the Greenpeace Philippines Local Group, organized a series of seminars on January 11-12 and January 18-19, 2025, in Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte. The event, themed "Empowering Coastal Stewards for a Resilient Future," aimed to enhance community involvement in marine conservation efforts, particularly in protecting and restoring coastal ecosystems.

Representing SLSU-Bontoc, Associate Professor I Jimmy Salamida shared his expertise on Mangrove Restoration Techniques and Nursery Set-up, as well as Coastal Stewardship: Conservation and Protection. His sessions emphasized the crucial role of mangroves in mitigating coastal erosion, supporting biodiversity, and enhancing climate resilience.

Providing hands-on guidance during the field activities, Resident Divemaster Ryan Tomol offered technical assistance to participants, particularly in underwater and coastal assessment techniques. His involvement ensured that attendees not only gained theoretical knowledge but also practical experience in marine conservation efforts.

The seminar brought together fisherfolk and community members, empowering them with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to sustainably manage and restore their vital mangrove ecosystems, ensuring long-term environmental and economic benefits for their communities.

“This initiative will serve as foundation for the establishment of a Mangrove Conservation Center and Nursery Project in the area,” Salamida stated. “This long-term endeavor aims to preserve biodiversity, rehabilitate degraded mangrove forests, and enhance climate resilience in the Southern Leyte province.”

With a strong emphasis on education, hands-on training, and local participation, the event reinforced the significance of collective action in protecting the region’s vital coastal ecosystems, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future.

This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water; SDG 15: Life on Land, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.