PANABO CITY – Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) and the University of the Ryukyus in Nishihara, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, have officially entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to collaborate on a marine biology research project on January 24, 2025.
The research initiative, titled “Assessing the Impact of Sedimentation on Coral Reef Ecosystems in Davao Gulf, Philippines”, aims to evaluate how sedimentation affects coral health and fish communities in the region. The study will utilize ecological survey methods to establish baseline data and develop strategies for sustainable coral reef management.
Tracy D. Tabalanza, a doctorate student at the University of the Ryukyus’ Graduate School of Engineering and Science, leads the project under the mentorship of Dr. Takashi Nakamura. The DNSC Marine Biology Department and the Marine Biodiversity Research and Conservation Center, led by Dr. Girley S. Gumanao, will provide research support and guidance. Additionally, DNSC will serve as the host institution for laboratory works.
The MOA signing was attended by key representatives from both institutions, with DNSC President Joy M. Sorrosa and University of the Ryukyus Dean Takemitsu Arakaki formalizing the agreement. Both leaders emphasized the importance of international collaborations in advancing marine science and addressing environmental challenges.
The University of the Ryukyus has been at the forefront of fostering global academic partnerships, currently maintaining exchange agreements with 114 institutions across 40 countries.
and Tracy D. Tabalanza signed the MOA with DNSC personnel standing behind them as witnesses.
Photo by Dr. Girley Gumanao, OVPAA.
