MMSU Vet Med prof recognized for contributions in marine mammal protection

By Monaliz Nagrampa, ๐˜Š๐˜ฐ๐˜ฏ๐˜ต๐˜ณ๐˜ช๐˜ฃ๐˜ถ๐˜ต๐˜ฐ๐˜ณ
Dr. Hasmin Chogsayan, a professor of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) College of Veterinary Medicine and former veterinarian of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region I (BFAR I), was conferred the Extraordinaire Continuing Support Award by the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network (PMMSN) in recognition of her significant contributions and sustained support to the organization.
The award was presented on December 8, 2025, during the 12th National PMMSN Symposium, themed โ€œTwo Decades of Unity, Knowledge, and Service,โ€ held in Quezon City. The event marked the organizationโ€™s 20th founding anniversary.
PMMSN recognized Dr. Chogsayan for her vital role in advancing the conservation and protection of marine mammals in the country. The organization also acknowledged her continued collaboration, trust, and unwavering support for PMMSNโ€™s initiatives and programs aimed at promoting healthier oceans and safeguarding marine species, contributions that have greatly supported the organizationโ€™s growth over the past two decades.
In addition, PMMSN honored Team Ilocos Norte as Outstanding Responders for their exemplary dedication and performance during marine mammal stranding events. The team is composed of the City Government of Laoag; the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte through its Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) and Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO); and Seanalakan, a community-based organization.
Hosted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), through the Fisheries Resources Management Division, in collaboration with PMMSN, the symposium gathered responders, researchers, volunteers, partner agencies, and ocean champions from across the country. The event served as a platform to honor a shared journey of service while inspiring participants to move forward with renewed purpose through groundbreaking ideas, powerful field experiences, and meaningful collaboration.