PANABO CITY — A team of international marine scientists visited Taklobo Tours at the Marine Reserve Park in Barangay Adecor, Island Garden City of Samal, during the Post-Conference Tour of the Global Biodiversity Conservation Conference (GBCC) held on October 1–4, 2025.
The delegation, composed of Dr. Kent Carpenter (Old Dominion University), Dr. Cleto L. Nañola Jr. (UP Mindanao), Dr. Richard Nami Muallil (MSU-Tawi-Tawi), Dr. Maybelle M.A. Fortaleza (UP Mindanao), Dr. Arthur Bos (American University in Cairo), and Dr. Greg Hodgson (Reef Check Director), explored the Giant Clam Sanctuary. The daily operations of the Taklobo Tours are run by the Adecor United Fisherfolk Organization (AdUFOr).
Guided by local tour guides, the scientists learned about the biology and conservation of giant clams, an emblem of Samal’s rich marine biodiversity.The visit showcased how Taklobo Tours integrates marine protection with sustainable tourism, providing both environmental preservation and livelihood for the community. The exchange between scientists and fisherfolk opened discussions on reef management, coral restoration, and climate resilience, inspiring AdUFOr members and local guides who recently received the “Biodiversity Leaf Award” from GBCC for their commitment to community-based marine conservation.
Supported by Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) in partnership with LGU-IGACOS and BLGU-Adecor, Taklobo Tours stands as a model of eco-tourism and conservation synergy, proving that protecting marine life can go hand in hand with empowering people.
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