The Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), known for its leading role in the field of research in Mindanao, is set to collaborate with the J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC) and the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Zamboanga del Sur for research initiatives centered on Lake Dasay in San Miguel and Lakewood municipality in Zamboanga del Sur.
On March 15, 2024, under the leadership of Dr. Wella Tiu-Tatil, the Graduate Program Chair/Coordinator, MSU-IIT Environmental Science Graduate Program of the Department of Biological Sciences (DBS), College of Science and Mathematics (CSM), accompanied by Dr. Armi G. Torres, Graduate Professor, together with PhD and MS students, made a courtesy visit to the office of Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales, President of JHCSC, at the JHCSC Pagadian Annex.
President Rosales warmly received the visitors from MSU-IIT, prospective research partners, along with VP for Research, Extension, and Resource Generation Dr. Jerry B. Superales, School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Dean Dr. Patricia D. Bahian, School of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Studies (SAFES) Dean Dr. Teonita Y. Velasco, BS in Environmental Science (BSES)/ MS Environmental Resources Management (MSERM) Program Chair, Dr. Rosanilio M. Yagos and College Planning Officer, Engr. Rodrigo P. Millares Jr.,EnP. A thorough discussion on research plans and future collaboration regarding the Lake Dasay and Lakewood study ensued. President Rosales underscored the importance of collaborating with MSU-IIT Environmental Science Researchers in conserving the biodiversity of the lakes. He emphasized the positive influence it would have on the community, especially in shaping policies for community and environmental welfare.
Following the courtesy call, the MSU-IIT research team proceeded to the Municipality of San Miguel, where they paid a courtesy visit to Mayor Ex D. Ocapan before conducting a site visit to Lake Dasay in Barangay Sayog. Subsequently, they traveled to Lakewood Municipality, initially visiting the JHCSC Lakewood Campus, where they were received by the campus administrator Prof. Ricky C. Egos. Later, they made a courtesy call to Lakewood Mayor Domingo F. Mirrar, represented by Vice Mayor Ronaldo P. Looc. To assess the current physical condition of the lake, the team conducted a lake tour with the guidance of Lakewood town SB Member Oliver Tumbao, Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR).
Dr. Tatil and Dr. Torres both expressed admiration for the enthusiastic backing provided by the JHCSC administration towards the planned research activities. They also commended the LGU officials for their willingness and wholehearted support for potential collaborative research projects in their respective areas.
Future research endeavors in the aforementioned lakes will center on Environmental and Natural Resources Economics, Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Dynamics, as well as Aquatic Ecosystems and their interrelation with People and the Environment.
Accompanying Dr. Tatil and Dr. Torres were PhD and MS students from the Environmental Science program, including Ms. Omera M. Cuaro, from Iligan City and Mr. Joseph Francis Ruelos, from Pagadian City. Additionally, Mr. Homer T. Lao, who serves as a faculty member of JHCSC SAFES and concurrently holds the position of Public Affairs Office (PAO) Director, was also part of the team and acted as the class representative for the research collaboration.
Soar high, J.H. Cerilles State College!”
Stronger and Bolder JHCSC for Quality Tertiary Education”
