𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐲 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 “𝐑𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐒” 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞

In a bid to promote environmental sustainability and coastal protection, the Science faculty of the College of Arts and Sciences spearheaded an extension activity titled “Restoring Ecosystems from Ocean Ridges to Reefs through Mangrove Sustainability (REFORMS)” on May 8, 2025, at Brgy. Luluasan Covered Court, Balatan, Camarines Sur.

The full-day program featured lectures and interactive discussions on critical issues affecting marine ecosystems. Highlights included talks by Ms. Catherine B. Guarnes, MAEd, on the effects of coral bleaching and ocean acidification on food security, Ms. Francia J. Babay on saltwater intrusion and inundation, and Ms. Ludilyn B. Agapito, MAEd, on the importance of mangrove reforestation.

The program opened with remarks from Mr. Romer Beltran-Yu, MAEd, Extension Coordinator, and culminated with a reflective session led by Mr. Erwin I. Pontillas, also from the Science Department.

The event brought together local community members, students, and stakeholders in support of marine conservation efforts. The initiative underscores the College’s commitment to environmental education and community engagement as part of its long-term sustainability agenda.