Dr. Wilfredo H. Uy, a distinguished authority in seagrass habitat research at Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), recently shared his extensive expertise on the “Case Study on Threat Assessment” within marine ecosystems. Serving as a Resource Person for the Multi-Year National Integrated Protected Areas System – Marine Protected Area (NIPAS-MPA) Capacity Building Program, organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB), Dr. Uy provided participants with in-depth knowledge on identifying and addressing critical threats to marine habitats.

The training program, conducted from April 28 to May 6, 2024, in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, brought together DENR personnel from across the Philippines, representing diverse regions and responsibilities. This intensive program is a collaborative initiative involving the DENR, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (US NOAA), and the US Agency for International Development (USAID), reflecting a globally coordinated approach to marine conservation and protected area management.

Throughout the sessions, Dr. Uy emphasized the importance of evidence-based management strategies, highlighting practical approaches to assessing threats such as habitat degradation, illegal fishing, and climate-related impacts on seagrass ecosystems. His case study presentation combined local observations with internationally recognized scientific methodologies, offering participants a clear framework for monitoring and mitigating ecological risks in marine protected areas.

In addition to his technical contributions, Dr. Uy engaged in interactive discussions with participants, addressing region-specific challenges and providing actionable recommendations for sustainable marine resource management. His insights underscored the critical role of integrating scientific research into policy and management decisions, ensuring that conservation measures are both effective and adaptive to evolving environmental conditions.

The program aims to equip DENR personnel with globally aligned standards and capacity, enhancing their ability to manage and protect marine ecosystems across the country. By bridging the gap between research and practical conservation, initiatives like this reinforce the Philippines’ commitment to sustainable marine stewardship and the long-term preservation of its coastal and marine biodiversity.

Dr. Uy's involvement in the NIPAS-MPA Capacity Building Program not only highlights his expertise but also demonstrates MSUN’s active role in advancing marine science, fostering international collaborations, and supporting the development of highly skilled environmental managers capable of safeguarding the nation’s marine resources for future generations.