The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 6, BFAR Negros Island Region (NIR), and the University formally strengthened their collaboration through the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) during the Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 11 Summit held on May 13, 2026. The agreement establishes a partnership focused on the science-based conservation and protection of marine mammals and their habitats within FMA 11.
The partnership marks a significant step in advancing marine conservation efforts through collaboration among government agencies and higher education institutions. As part of the initiative, partner institutions will support the Irrawaddy dolphin population estimate survey, a key undertaking aimed at generating scientific data to inform fisheries management, conservation planning, and policy development.
Representing their respective institutions during the signing were DA-BFAR Region 6 Regional Director Remia A. Aparri, DA-BFAR NIR Regional Director Rene Parreño, and Dr. Romeo G. Teruel, Vice Chancellor for Research and Engagement of USLS. In his message, Dr. Teruel underscored the importance of evidence-based environmental initiatives, emphasizing the role of scientific research in addressing marine biodiversity concerns.
Through the MOA, the institutions committed to collaborative efforts in marine mammal stranding response, necropsy activities, and capacity-building programs intended to strengthen local expertise in marine mammal conservation. These initiatives are expected to enhance regional preparedness and improve conservation outcomes through interdisciplinary engagement.
Director Aparri, who also serves as Chairperson of the Blue Swimming Crab National Technical Working Group (BSC-NTWG), leads the broader initiative on Blue Swimming Crab fishery management, including the implementation of the agreement. The partnership also supports efforts to address concerns related to the List of Foreign Fisheries (LOFF) under the Marine Mammal Protection Act enforced by the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries), reinforcing the shared commitment to sustainable fisheries and marine ecosystem protection.