(From left to right: Ms. Polianne Tiamson, Science Research Specialist II at the Socio-Economics Research Division (SERD), Ms. Meliza Abeleda, Senior Science Research Specialist at the SERD, Ms. Eileen Redera, Senior Science Research Specialist at the Marine Resources Research Division, Ms. Virna Salac, Supervising Science Research Specialist at the Inland Aquatic Resources Research Division, Dr. Fezoil Luz Decena, Director of the Institution Development Division, Mr. Teddy Monroy, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Country Representative, Ms. Meryem Sghir, Industrial Development Officer, Dr. Reynaldo Ebora, DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director, Dr. Ernesto Brown, Director of SERD, Ms. Jezreel Joy Cristobal, National Programme Associate, Ms. Zarah Quintillano, Project Assistant, and Dr. Lilian Bondoc, Director of the Policy Coordination and Monitoring Division. (Image credit: Mr. Paul Czesar Katimbang, ACD, DOST-PCAARRD)
The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) convened a meeting at DOST-PCAARRD, Los Baños, Laguna to explore and solidify collaboration opportunities focusing on aquaculture and biodiversity.
The meeting's primary purpose was to initiate a strategic partnership between DOST-PCAARRD and UNIDO, aiming to leverage each organization's strengths to tackle pressing environmental and developmental challenges.
With UNIDO’s mission to promote inclusive and sustainable industrial development and DOST-PCAARRD’s expertise in biodiversity and aquaculture, the collaboration holds significant potential for advancing innovative solutions in these critical fields.
DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora emphasized the significance of the meeting. He highlighted that it is an opportunity to discuss and refine potential project proposals that align with both organizations' goals.
The session aimed to build a framework for collaboration that could enhance sustainable management practices and foster regional development through targeted projects.
Ms. Meryem Sghir, Industrial Development Officer at UNIDO, expressed interest in identifying specific initiatives where DOST-PCAARRD’s expertise could contribute. These initiatives include Sustainable Coastal Management through the Adaptation Fund and regional eco-friendly innovation projects. The approach reflects UNIDO’s commitment to accelerating progress towards sustainable industrial practices while addressing environmental concerns.
Dr. Ebora provided a comprehensive overview of DOST-PCAARRD’s biodiversity management and aquaculture initiatives, underscoring the Council’s role in policy-making, forest rehabilitation, and marine biodiversity. This comprehensive presentation illustrated DOST-PCAARRD’s capabilities and set the stage for identifying collaborative projects that could benefit from UNIDO’s support and expertise.
The discussions also highlighted DOST-PCAARRD’s alignment with UNIDO’s ongoing initiatives and emphasized the potential for co-developing projects that could address global biodiversity challenges and promote sustainable development.
By focusing on detailed assessments, consultations, and collaborative efforts, the meeting hoped to ensure that both DOST-PCAARRD and UNIDO can effectively contribute to and benefit from shared initiatives.