The Enhancing Marine Environmental Resource Governance in Indonesia and the Philippines (EMERGE-IP) project successfully conducted its ecological fieldwork in collaboration with the Marine Environment and Resources Foundation (MERF).

The first leg of the fieldwork was conducted from April 13 to 27, 2026 in San Vicente, while the second leg followed from April 30 to May 8, 2026 in Inner Bay, Taytay. These activities focused on ecological surveys and collaborative research to strengthen marine resource governance in Palawan.

WPU personnel who joined the fieldwork included Mr. Niño Jess Mar Mecha (CFiNS Faculty), Mr. Lucio Ardines, and Ms. Vernice Añora (Researchers, EMERGE Project). The ecological surveys were supervised by Dr. Rene Abesamis of MERF, while the WPU project leadership was overseen by Dr. Lota Alcantara-Creencia. 

The project team extends its deep gratitude to the Sulubaai Foundation for generously providing accommodation and speed boat support during the entire ecological survey in Taytay. Their assistance ensured smooth logistics and greatly contributed to the success of the fieldwork.

This successful participation highlighted WPU’s commitment to advancing marine ecological research and its dedication to sustainable resource management in partnership with international collaborators.