Mariano Marcos
State University

BFAR-R1 commends MMSU CVM and CASAT for marine mammal stranding response

By Ian Paul Villanueva

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 1 awarded the MMSU College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and the College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT) with certificates of commendation during the 63rd Fisheries Conservation and Protection (FISHCON) Culminating Activity on September 21 in San Fernando City, La Union.

BFAR Region 1 recognized the two colleges’ collaborative efforts in marine  mammal stranding response assistance. The agency cited their active provision of veterinary expertise, scientific knowledge, field assistance, and coordination with communities and concerned agencies in the province.

A stranding occurs when a marine mammal gets stuck on land or shallow seawaters. Being a coastal province, marine mammal strandings are quite common along the shores of Ilocos Norte, making proper stranding response critical to save animal lives and protect human health, among others.

In the same awarding ceremony, CVM faculty member, Dr. Hasmin Chogsayan, also received a separate commendation. She received a plaque of commendation for her active involvement in field response and technical assistance. The plaque recognized her contributions to the proper assessment, handling, and documentation of stranded marine mammals in the province.

Through the active partnership of CVM, CASAT, BFAR, local government units, and other stakeholders, MMSU continues to advance the conservation and responsible management of marine biodiversity in Ilocos Norte.
                                                                                                                                        
Ultimately, the recognition proves the steadfast commitment of the university to promoting One Health, wildlife conservation, scientific service, and environmental stewardship.