Month: February 2025

In the coastal town of Tigbauan, Iloilo, a unique and impactful environmental initiative is unfolding, one that combines the energy and leadership of students with the wisdom of seasoned conservationists to protect the endangered Olive Ridley Sea turtles. The Sanctuarium Maris: Sea Turtle Nest Protection Project, spearheaded by the West Visayas State University (WVSU) DagYoung Student Ambassadors, stands as a powerful symbol of community collaboration, environmental stewardship, and a commitment to preserving marine life for future generations.

On February 22, 2025, the project held its second seminar-training in Barangay Atabayan, a key nesting site for the Olive Ridley Sea turtle. The event gathered students, local officials, environmental advocates, and community members, united by a shared mission: to protect sea turtles and safeguard their fragile nesting grounds.

A Collective Effort for Conservation

At the heart of this initiative is the partnership between the WVSU DagYoung Student Ambassadors, the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the WVSU Federated Student Council (FSC), and the Development Communicators’ Society. Funded by the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, the Sanctuarium Maris project is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations, students, and local communities come together to tackle pressing environmental issues.

“The Sanctuarium Maris project is not just about protecting sea turtles; it is about fostering a sense of shared responsibility,” said Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the WVSU International and Local Linkages Office, during her opening speech. She stressed that the project represents the start of a sustainable conservation movement that aims to preserve marine life for future generations.

Education as the Cornerstone of Conservation

One of the most striking aspects of the seminar-training was its focus on education. With the expertise of the resource speaker, participants were provided with practical knowledge and tools to ensure the survival of sea turtles and their nesting sites.

Ms. Hananiah Pitogo, In-Charge of the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC)- Tigbauan Fishworld, delivered an engaging talk on the handling of sea turtle eggs and hatchlings. Her insights were invaluable to participants, many of whom are residents of Barangay Atabayan. She emphasized the importance of proper egg handling, the establishment of marine protected areas, and the role of community-based monitoring systems in fostering long-term conservation efforts.

Pitogo’s presentation also highlighted the dangers that sea turtle nests face, particularly from human activity. “The survival of sea turtles depends not just on the protection of their habitats but on educating local communities about the best practices for conserving them,” Pitogo noted.

A Symbol of Hope for the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle

The Olive Ridley Sea turtle, classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is one of the primary species benefiting from the Sanctuarium Maris project. Barangay Atabayan, known for being one of the Philippines’ significant nesting sites for these turtles, has long faced challenges in protecting the species. Human activities such as fishing and encroachment on nesting sites have contributed to the decline in their population.

In recent years, local conservation efforts have yielded promising results. Between 2001 and 2011, more than 100 turtles were reported stranded, many of which had injuries due to human activity. But as awareness about the importance of sea turtle conservation grew, so did the number of successful rescues. In 2020 alone, 11 turtles were rescued by local volunteers, highlighting the region’s growing commitment to preserving these marine creatures.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future for Sea Turtles

As the Sanctuarium Maris project continues to grow, its impact extends beyond just the shores of Atabayan. The collaborative efforts of WVSU, local government units, community members, and conservationists are laying the foundation for a more sustainable and environmentally-conscious future for Iloilo and the Philippines as a whole.

With a focus on education, community involvement, and practical conservation strategies, the Sanctuarium Maris project is poised to leave a lasting legacy. As local residents and students continue to work together, their collective efforts will ensure that the Olive Ridley Sea turtles have a fighting chance at survival—making Barangay Atabayan a symbol of hope for marine conservation efforts around the world.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

On February 17, 2025, the Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA-Teacher) Project concluded another successful year with its Exit Conference at West Visayas State University (WVSU).

The event celebrated the achievements of three Indonesian student teachers from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD)-Shazwina Syfia Aulia, Nada Auliya Rahmah, and Alifia Aminatuzzahra who participated in a month-long practicum at Integrated Laboratory School (ILS), which began on January 23, 2025.

The exchange program, part of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), provided these future educators with the opportunity to gain hands-on teaching experience while immersing themselves in the culture of the Philippines.

Dr. Ricky M. Magno, Dean of the College of Education (COE), welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of cross-cultural educational experiences.

“I hope the experiences that you have learned from our university is something that you would cherish and would somehow give an impact on your holistic development as one of the teachers in the future,” Dr. Magno said.

Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, highlighted the significance of international collaboration in teacher education.

“To our exchange students, you have not only contributed to the academic growth of WVSU but have also helped build stronger connections between our institutions. Your presence has bridged the gap between our cultures, and the lessons we’ve learned from one another will continue to guide us in the years ahead”, she said.

The students themselves shared heartfelt reflections on their time at WVSU. They spoke about their academic growth, particularly in their respective fields of study, including Guidance and Counseling, Mathematics Education, and English Language Education. “The academic training I received here at WVSU has been invaluable,” said Shazwina Syfia Aulia. “It has not only expanded my knowledge but also enhanced my skills to better serve students back home in Indonesia.”

Nada Auliya Rahmah echoed similar sentiments, adding, “The English language training was particularly helpful, as it has broadened my horizons and given me new tools to use in my teaching career.”

Beyond academics, the students expressed immense gratitude for the cultural experiences they had throughout their stay. They recalled participating in traditional Filipino dances, food tastings, and visiting cultural landmarks, all of which they found to be highlights of the program.

The SEA-Teacher Project continues to foster international collaboration, cultural exchange, and the professional development of future educators in Southeast Asia.

It is noted that this is the 10th batch that WVSU has participated in.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

Two Japanese students from Surugadai University—Suga Nene and Rin Kusakari—have embarked on a one-week internship at West Visayas State University (WVSU), which runs from February 17-21, 2025. This internship offers them the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting while fostering community engagement within a diverse educational environment.

The internship is under the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) but the interns are detailed in the Office of the President and the Office of the Student Affairs (OSA).

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO 

In a powerful demonstration of community collaboration and environmental commitment, the West Visayas State University (WVSU) DagYoung Student Ambassadors, in partnership with the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Federated Student Council (FSC), and the Development Communicators’ Society, held the first seminar-training of the Sanctuarium Maris: Sea Turtle Nest Protection Project on February 15, 2025, in Barangay Atabayan, Tigbauan, Iloilo.

Funded by the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, the project highlights WVSU’s strong dedication to sustainability, conservation, and volunteerism. The DagYoung Student Ambassadors, under the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) of WVSU, spearheaded the initiative, showcasing the power of student leadership in driving positive change that benefits both the environment and the local community.

The seminar-training session was opened by Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the WVSU International and Local Linkages Office, who highlighted the importance of education and collaboration in environmental action.

“The conceptualization of the Sanctuarium Maris is a product of collaborative concern and efforts that we would like to put into practice, serving as the beginning of something that will continue through generations,” she said.

Cyndy Sol G. Rodrigo, Ecosystem Management Specialist II and Regional Alternate Youth Desk Officer of DENR VI, delivered an insightful talk on protecting water and forests to save sea turtles. She also addressed the importance of ensuring compliance with laws and policies related to sea turtle and nest conservation.

Rodrigo also shared best practices for implementing conservation efforts, including the effective management of marine protected areas, community-based monitoring systems, and the importance of educating local populations on how to properly handle sea turtle nests to ensure their safety.

Her session underscored the necessity of strong governance and community action in securing the future of sea turtles, reinforcing that environmental protection goes hand-in-hand with the legal framework necessary to enforce conservation measures.

Jessie L. Reyes, Communication Development Officer II and Regional Designate Youth Desk Officer, summarized the session’s key insights and reflections, while Johnric G. Vargas, Special Projects Coordinator, offered reminders and closing remarks.

Barangay Atabayan, one of the Philippines’ key nesting sites for the endangered Olive Ridley Sea turtles, faces significant challenges to turtle conservation. These turtles, listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), are at risk due to human activities such as fishing. Between 2001 and 2011, more than 100 turtles were reported stranded, many suffering from injuries. In 2020 alone, 11 turtles were rescued, underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts in the region.

As sea turtles continue to nest along the shores of Atabayan, the project will stand as a testament to the power of community collaboration in driving meaningful environmental change. With the joint efforts of WVSU, local government units, and the residents of Atabayan, the Sanctuarium Maris project aspires to leave a lasting legacy of sea turtle preservation and habitat conservation for future generations.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO