The university sent participants and resource persons from various colleges, including the Colleges of Arts and Sciences – Institute of Biological Science (CAS-IBS), Forestry and Environmental Science (CFES), and Veterinary Medicine (CVM). The Center for Biodiversity Research and Extension in Mindanao (CEBREM) took the platform to highlight its contributions to discovering and rediscovering wildlife species in Mindanao.

According to Dr. Angela Grace Toledo-Bruno, Professor and Head of the Biodiversity Extension and Public Awareness Unit of CEBREM the focal point of the celebration was the unique biodiversity of Bukidnon, a topic that resonates with CMU’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Dr. Toledo-Bruno enlightened the audience about the significance of forest patches in securing the habitat of wildlife species. Her engaging discussion aimed to raise awareness and emphasize the value of biodiversity conservation.

Moreover, the 2023 NAST Outstanding Young Scientist, Dr. Fulgent Coritico currently leading the Biodiversity Research Unit of CEBREM, presented a paper on wildlife in Mindanao’s mountain ecosystems, contributing valuable insights to biodiversity conservation discourse.

In addition, Dr. Jose Escarlos, Jr., former Dean, and Professor of CMU-CVM highlighted the importance of wildlife within the One Health framework, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

Central Mindanao University’s active participation in the World Wildlife Day 2024 celebration not only showcased its commitment to environmental conservation but also highlighted the collaborative efforts needed to address the challenges facing wildlife and ecosystems.

The campaign was co-presented by Robinsons Valencia and FDC Utilities, Inc., and supported by various government and non-government entities such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Regional Office 10 (DENR 10), the Provincial Government of Bukidnon, Municipal Government of San Fernando, Protected Area Management Boards (PAMBs), Park Superintendent (PASu)s of Mt. Kitanglad and Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park, USAID through the Gerry Roxas Foundation, Xavier Science Foundation, Mandai Nature, and Central Mindanao University. ^{_{[Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from Dr. Angela Grace Toledo-Bruno, Head of the Biodiversity Extension and Public Awareness Unit of CEBREM]}}

The event gathered different stakeholders from different parts of the globe, such as researchers, faculty members, administrators, students, and policymakers, to raise awareness about the varied challenges found in the environment that affect biodiversity and ecosystem services as a whole and to take concrete steps to strengthen biodiversity as stated in the rationale of the program.

This year’s theme of the conference is “Navigating Environmental Challenges for Sustainable Biodiversity,” featured an oral presentation, poster competition, exhibits, and Young Minds Biodiversity Reports (Students Category), which served as platforms for researchers and stakeholders to discuss individual roles as biodiversity stewards.

Furthermore, the event was envisioned to offer fruitful insights into the sustainable use of biodiversity, not only for the present generation but for future generations. “We deeply care for our planet and the biodiversity contained therein. Man’s action is the primary factor that determines the sustainability of our resource,” CEBREM Director Dr. Florfe M. Acma asserted in her message.

Moreover, Dr. Vanessa Handley, a botanist and conservation biologist working in biodiversity hotspots worldwide, graced the event as a keynote speaker. She talked about Championing Plants: Pathways to Accelerated Conservation Action. “So here in Mindanao, I have a lovely history; I’ve been working with the team at Central Mindanao University and other local universities on a biodiversity project,” she said in an interview.

Also, seven plenary speakers presented their research outputs anchored to this year’s theme:

Dr. Delia C. Catacutan, “Biodiversity for a Sustainable Future: Nexus Challenges and the Roles of Education and Research,”

Dr. Aditya Yudhana, “A Novel Artificial Incubator for Sea Turtle Eggs: Increasing the Hatching Success and Improving the Temperature-dependent Sex Determination,”

Mgr. Dominik Vondráček, Ph.D., “The Educational and Popularizing Role of the National Museum (Czech Republic) to Biodiversity Conservation”

Dr. Victor B. Amoroso, “From Biodiversity Research to Product Development and Conservation,”

Dr. April Hari Wardhana, SKH, MSi, “Surra: The Threats of Extinction of Indigenous Horses and Their Potential for Zoonosis in Sumba Island, Indonesia”

Dr. Fulgent P. Coritico, “Unveiling Mindanao’s Ferns and Lycophytes: Diversity, New Species, Records, and Rediscoveries,”

RnDr. Lukáš Sekerka, Ph.D., “Biodiversity of Tortoise Beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae of the Philippines”)

In addition, researchers from different parts of the Philippines also presented their papers during the parallel sessions.

The Natural Products Research and Development Center (NPRDC), the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), and the Central Mindanao University Faculty Association Incorporated (CMUFAI) collaborated to organize the event. A closing program and award ceremony marked the end of the event. _{[Mary Jane D. Bravo with reports from CEBREM]}

During his first year, Dr. Coritico has always dreamed of being a student at Central Mindanao University. Yet, as he approached the enrollment process, uncertainty clouded his mind regarding the course he would pursue. Initially, he was inclined towards chemistry, but when he encountered a friend lining up for biology, this caught his attention. He engaged in conversation and soon found himself questioning his original choice. In the moment of spontaneity, he decided to switch to biology, setting the stage for a transformative journey.

Upon entering his fourth year in Biology, Dr. Coritico discovered the daunting reputation of Dr. Victor B. Amoroso, a professor known for being strict and primarily focusing on teaching graduate students. And during this time, Dr. Amoroso opened an opportunity in which he would accept five Biology students to conduct their thesis in the picturesque Mt. Pantaron Range, exploring topics ranging from plants, ferns, trees, amphibians, to insects – a true cornucopia of biodiversity.

Fortunately, Dr. Coritico eagerly applied and got the chance to work with Dr. Amoroso. Although his initial thesis study focused on frogs, he couldn’t help but be intrigued by Dr. Amoroso’s unwavering dedication to studying plants. As they delved into the diverse ecosystems of the mountain range, Dr. Coritico witnessed firsthand the meticulous training and mentorship style that Dr. Amoroso employed with his students. He learned the importance of advanced reading, as the professor would directly quiz his students on-site. This experience instilled in him a profound respect for Dr. Amoroso’s mentoring approach. 

Upon graduating, Dr. Coritico continued taking his master’s at CMU while working as a Research Assistant for seven years from 2009-2015 under Dr. Amoroso. He planned to pursue his doctoral studies abroad with a scholarship opportunity at the University of Zurich. The collaboration with Dr. Amoroso, who had offered support on his journey, seemed like a dream come true. However, the scholarships were highly competitive, with only one scholar each selected in Asia. He got in during the first training but did not pass during the interview. Undeterred by this setback, he decided to continue his studies at Central Mindanao University under the guidance of Dr. Amoroso and Dr. Florfe M. Acma.

Many were shocked by his decision to forgo opportunities at renowned institutions like the University of the Philippines (UP). But Dr. Coritico carefully evaluated that CMU houses experts in his desired area of specialization, and the quality of education is also available at CMU. Thus, he continued his doctoral degree at CMU.

After completing his doctoral degree, Dr. Coritico was hired as a University Researcher 1 at Central Mindanao University, the Center for Biodiversity Research and Extension in Mindanao (CEBREM) for two years from 2016-2018. And continues to be a faculty in the Department of Biology from 2018 to the present.

Armed with a wealth of knowledge and passion for discovery, he dedicated himself to sharing his findings with the world. One of his noble contributions to the field of biology came in the form of a groundbreaking discovery. He stumbled upon the critically endangered species of lycophyte known as Isoetes philippinensis, a unique amphibious fern. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) this fern has been thought to be nearly extinct in the wild.

Driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the fern’s ecology and reproductive mechanism, Dr. Coritico obtained a permit from the DENR, where they found that the last recorded collection of the species was back in the 1960s. Dr. Coritico dove to depths of up to 10 meters in the Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Davao Oriental Province, Mindanao, to carefully observe and collect specimens of the fern. His rediscovery of Isoetes philippinensis brought hope and renewed attention to the conservation efforts of this critically endangered species. Dr. Coritico’s research contributes to the broader understanding of plant diversity and conservation in the Philippines.

Dr. Coritico’s contribution also extends beyond his scientific productivity. While he has published 85 articles as of July 2023 and achieved a notable H-index of ten on Google Scholar, he understands the importance of engaging with local stakeholders and serving his community – recognizing the interconnectedness between scientific research and the community’s well-being. Dr. Coritico actively seeks opportunities to make a positive impact outside the confines of the laboratory. He understands that the knowledge and expertise that he has acquired can be instruments in addressing local challenges and promoting sustainable development.

In addition to his impressive accomplishment and community involvement, Dr. Coritico’s outstanding contribution was recognized last July 13, 2023, as he received    the highest honor from the scientific body in the Philippines. This distinguished accolade is not something that can be personally applied for; instead, it is a recognition bestowed upon individuals who are nominated by their peers or colleagues.

In the case of Dr. Coritico, his nomination came from Dr. Acma, the esteemed CEBREM Director of CMU, who recognized his immense potential in the field of science and technology, even during his undergraduate years as a BS Biology student. According to Dr. Acma, Dr. Coritico’s nomination was a result of his exemplary work as a research assistant, where he showcased diligence and exceptional leadership qualities. Even while pursuing his graduate studies, he exhibited remarkable time management skills, balancing his academic pursuits with his research responsibilities.

Dr. Acma nominated Dr. Coritico for the Outstanding Young Scientist award based on his impressive track record and accomplishments. By touching the lives of local communities and addressing relevant environmental concerns, Dr. Coritico exemplifies the transformative power of scientific research and its ability to bring positive change to society. Dr. Coritico’s dedication and passion for scientific inquiry serve as an inspiration to budding scientists, making him a shining example within the scientific community.

Being the sole nominee from their institution speaks volumes about Dr. Coritico’s exceptional contribution and achievements in the field of science. The Judging for the Outstanding Young Scientist award undergoes a rigorous selection process. The criteria for selection are based on the quality and quantity of scientific works and publications, the contributions to the advancement of science in general and science in the Philippines, and the contributions to the well-being of the Philippine economy and culture.

So, when Dr. Coritico heard he won the Outstanding Young Scientist in the field of Biology, he felt thankful for CMU, especially to Dr. Amoroso, whom he learned so much from “Kaning pagka OYS nako, dako gyud kong pasalamat, especially sa CMU, especially si Dr. Amoroso nga nag mentor gyud pud sa akoa nga para ma develop.” (Me being nominated as OYS, I’m extremely grateful, especially [to] CMU, and especially towards Dr. Amoroso who really mentored me to develop). This nurturing environment has allowed Dr. Coritico to work as a researcher and a scholar, expanding his horizons and deepening his understanding.

The inspiring journey of Dr. Coritico highlights the significance of finding joy in one’s work, embracing the advice of mentors, and recognizing the value of individual strength and specialties. Dr. Coritico’s path was driven not by a predetermined dream but by a passion for research and commitment to community engagement. By embracing these principles, we can carve out our own remarkable path, find fulfillment and make a positive impact in our chosen field. _{[Nicole Mae D. Abao & Rose Ann Q. Sulatorio]}

_{Photos Credits to Dr. Fulgent Coritico and CEBREM}

The onsite monitoring and evaluation were graced by the presence of Dr. Jesus Antonio G. Derije, University President who gave his welcome message. Pres. Derije warmly greeted the DOST-PCAARRD and extended his gratitude to the team for giving their time to visit CMU.

“I know that the performance of our research team with the guidance of our VP for Research Development and Extension, our Research Director, and of course our research team, hindi po kayo magsisisi,” Pres. Derije assured.

Dr. Alan P. Dargantes, Vice President for Research Development and Extension, Dr. Emmanuel P. Leaño, NOMCAARRD Director, and some CMU key officials were also present during the event.

Meanwhile, Dr. Faustina C. Baradas, Director Supervising Science Research Specialist of DOST-PCAARRD Forestry and Environmental Research Division led the Monitoring and Evaluation Team. Three projects, one program from CFES and two from CEBREM, presented the initial outputs of their research implementation.

For CFES, the three projects were: (1)” Growth Stress Attributes and Measures to Minimize the Wood Defects of Falcata,” Dr. Mark Jun A. Rojo as the Project Leader; (2) “Pest and Diseases Incidence and Severity in Falcata Plantations in Mindanao,” Dr. Adrian M. Tulod as the Project Leader; and (3) “Conservation and Mass Production of High-yielding Falcata Seed Sources in Mindanao,” Dr. Jupiter V. Casas as the Project Leader. Moreover, the NICER Bamboo R&D program with four projects was presented by Dr. Lowell G. Aribal. For CEBREM, Dr. Fulgent P. Coritico, Project Leader, presented the project entitled “Spore Morphology, Ex-Situ Conservation, and Utilization of Mindanao Indigenous Pteridophytes.” Dr. Coritico also presented another project on behalf of Dr. Victor B. Amoroso entitled “Biodiversity in Selected Mountain Ecosystems in Mindanao for Conservation and Sustainable Development.”

Project and Program Leaders introduced their Research Team and narrated their experiences from the implementation up to their present status. Dr. Cesar Nuevo, Science and Technology Consultant, provided input and recommendations to the Sfor the different projects.

On Day 2, an actual visit to various research sites was conducted. These include Bamboo Center, Spore Morphology Facilities, CFES Clonal Nursery (Conservation and Bamboo Nicer Project 4), GEOMIN (Bamboo Nicer Project 2), Sawmill (Bamboo Nicer Project 1 and 3), and Conservation Hedge Garden and Phase 1 Field Trial). Further, Day 3 visit includes the IPDM Sampling Site at Barangay Guinoyoran, Valencia City and University Museum, and CEBREM for Biodiversity Project.

The DOST-PCAARRD team and S&T Consultant provided significant inputs and comments on each project as part of the review and evaluation. [Maejoy L. Talisay] ]]> http://www.cmu.edu.ph/cmu-hosts-a-webinar-to-commemorate-the-international-day-for-biodiversity/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cmu-hosts-a-webinar-to-commemorate-the-international-day-for-biodiversity Mon, 30 May 2022 14:29:00 +0000 https://www.cmu.edu.ph/?p=20753 The Center for Biodiversity Research and Extension in Mindanao (CEBREM), in partnership with the Department of Biology and the CMU Research Office, organized a webinar on Coleoptera Identification, Curation, and Updates, in celebration of the International Day for Biodiversity on May 23, 2022.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Florfe M. Acma, Director of CEBREM, pointed out the significance of the celebration through the webinar and emphasized its goal to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. “Coleoptera, the weevils, and the beetles are an integral part of our funnel biodiversity, which we should protect and utilize sustainably,” she added. 

Dr. Acma further stated, “We hope to gain more knowledge, skills, and appreciation for these creatures, which are an important component of this beloved mother Earth.”

Four plenary speakers from the Czech Republic were invited to share their experiences and encourage participants to appreciate biodiversity. The first speaker was Magister Dominik Vondráček, a researcher from the Department of Entomology, National Museum in Prague. He highlighted the 2015 partnership between Central Mindanao University through Dr. Alma Mohagan and the National Museum. 

The said partnerships’ goal is to accumulate basic research data on the island’s biodiversity, allowing additional scientists, students, and institutions to use them in the future. Also, the data could be used by institutions for nature conservation, assisting them in protecting Mindanao’s natural resources. In his talk, Magister Vondráček also emphasized the objective of the collaboration: “We hope, of course, that this data can be later used by you, by other institutions in Mindanao to protect nature for nature conservation and so on,” he added.

The second speaker, Dr. Jiří Hájek, a Research Scientist from the Department of Entomology, National Museum, and Natural History Museum, discussed his research on water beetles with a special focus on Philippine fauna. He believed that there were various unknown species of water beetle in the Philippine archipelago, particularly in Mindanao. He said, “I am pretty sure that here in Mindanao, there will be several hundred undescribed taxa from various families of water beetles which need to be discovered, described, and optimally protected.” In addition, water beetles are also worth studying because they are one of the most well-known insects, according to Dr. Hájek.

Dr. Lukáš Sekerka, Chairperson of the Department of Entomology, National Museum in Prague, presented the third topic, Cassidinae. In his introduction, he listed the cassidinae species that had been identified and expressed interest in exploring cassidinae in the Philippines. “What is also surprising, the biology of the endemic species in the Philippines is completely unknown,” he asserted.

Lastly, Professor Vít Lukáš, a faculty from the Department of Zoology, Charles University, Prague, shared the exciting part of wildlife conservation and photography. He presented photos and techniques related to photography and his experiences in documenting wildlife. He also believes that artistic photography is essential in promoting a topic, especially in this present social media environment.

Overall, the commemoration of International Day for Biodiversity by hosting a webinar on Coleoptera Identification, Curation, and Updates informs, educates, and encourages ways to appreciate and protect biodiversity, especially in the Philippines. [Mary Jane Desalia Bravo]

        It was on 16-17 July 2000 that Central Mindanao University (CMU) in Musuan, Bukidnon, in collaboration with National Science Council of Taiwan, the East Asia-Pacific Regional LTER Network Committee and National Research Council of the Philippines, organized and sponsored the 1st Symposium on the Promotion of Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) and Biodiversity Studies in the Philippines.

        Six years after holding that 1st LTER Symposium, the Philippine National Committee for LTER and DIVERSITAS, Central Mindanao University and the Commission on Higher Education, have organized the 2nd LTER and Biodiversity Symposium to assess the status and progress of long-term ecological and biodiversity research activities in East Asia. The 3rd Symposium on LTER and biodiversity Research was at the Institute of Biology, UPD in November 20, 2010 and organized by CMU and UPD while the 4th scientific meeting was organized by PhiLTER and held in UP Diliman in conjunction with the East Asia Pacific-LTER 10th biennial meeting in June 2-7, 2014.

a. To present current trends in ecological and biodiversity research.
b. To disseminate long-term ecological and biodiversity research results conducted in the
Philippines to the researchers, policy makers and donors.
c. To encourage the establishment of LTER and Biodiversity sites.
d. To give insights to LGU’s, administrators, and heads of offices for policy formulation.
e. To strengthen research linkages/collaborations among researchers.

        The organizing committee welcomes submissions of abstracts for oral and poster presentations relevant to the theme “Philippine Long-Term Ecological Research (PhiLTER): Status, Updates and Collaborations”   Please indicate whether the abstract is for oral or poster presentation.  Submit it to Prof. Lalaine G. Sariana via email: cebrem2012@gmail.com. The deadline for the submission will be on September 9, 2016. A notice of acceptance for either paper or poster presentation will be sent to the authors.

         International Long-Term Ecological Research (ILTER) is a network of scientists engaged in longterm site-based ecological, biodiversity and socio-economic research.

        The mission of ILTER is to provide the scientific community, policy makers, and society with the knowledge and predictive understanding necessary to conserve, protect, and manage the nation’s ecosystems, their biodiversity, and the services they provide.

        East Asia and Pacific Regional Network of ILTER, or EAP-ILTER, was launched in 1995 as one of the six regional networks under ILTER Network. The main goal of the regional network is to enhance the long-term ecological research in this region, promote the information sharing and facilitates multilateral exchange and collaborations among the member networks and ecological research in this region and across the global LTER community.

        Endorsed member networks of EAP-ILTER include Australian Long-Term Ecological Research Network (Australian LTER Network), Chinese Ecosystem Research Network (CERN), Korea Long-Term Ecological Research Network (KLTER), Mongolian Long-Term Ecological Research Network (MLTER), Taiwan Long-Term Ecological Research Network (TERN), the US Long-Term Ecological Network (USLTER), Malaysia LTER, Vietnam LTER, Japan Ecosystem Research Network (JERN), Thailand Long-Term Ecological Research Network and Philippine Long Term Ecological Research (PhiLTER).

        21 September 2016

• Registration
• Opening Program
• Ribbon Cutting for Poster Exhibits
• Keynote Address
• Plenary Session 1 (Luzon LTER)
• Plenary Session 2 (Visayas LTER)
• Oral Paper and Poster Presentations

        22 September 2016

• Plenary Session 3 (Mindanao LTER)
• Oral Paper Presentations
• Poster Paper Presentations
• Workshop Topics:

1. Taxidermy
2. How to Establish Permanent Plot
3. Collection Techniques and Processing of Biological Specimens
4. Measurement of Forest Productivity: Litterfall

• Closing Program

• Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao LTER
• Non-LTER Researchers
• LGUs
• NGOs
• Environmentalists

Institute of Biology, UP-Diliman

Dr. Perry S. Ong
Chair, National Committee, PhiLTER
Email: ongperry@science.upd.edu.ph
Cellphone number: 09189015677

Center for Biodiversity Research and Extension in Mindanao (CEBREM), CMU

Dr. Victor B. Amoroso
National Coordinator, PhiLTER
Email: victorbamoroso@gmail.com
Cellphone: 09175495084

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