Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water focuses on conserving and sustainably using oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development. Western Philippines University contributes to this goal through its academic programs, research, and community extension initiatives that promote the sustainable management of marine and coastal ecosystems. Its efforts include fisheries and aquatic resource research, responsible aquaculture practices, marine biodiversity assessment, and the promotion of sustainable fishing and resource management. The university also supports environmental awareness, habitat conservation, and community capacity-building activities that encourage the protection of marine and coastal environments. Through collaboration with government agencies, research institutions, and local communities, WPU helps address challenges such as marine pollution, habitat degradation, overfishing, and the declining health of aquatic ecosystems. By applying scientific knowledge and sharing practical solutions, the university contributes to strengthening the sustainability of fisheries and coastal livelihoods while protecting marine biodiversity. These initiatives align with SDG 14’s objectives of reducing marine pollution, conserving coastal and marine ecosystems, promoting sustainable fisheries, and strengthening scientific research and local capacities for the responsible use of marine resources.
Our initiatives
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WPU EMERGE-IP Researchers Conduct Ecological Surveys in Palawan
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… Read more
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WPU Empowers Coastal Communities through Research-Based Training on Marine Conservation and Sustainable Resource Management
Puerto Princesa City, Palawan | December 15–16, 2025 In its continuing commitment to marine environmental protection and sustainable coastal development, Western Philippines University (WPU), through its College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences (CFiNS), conducted a two-day community extension programme titled “Health and Well-being of Coastal Communities” on December 15–16, 2025, in Barangay Santa Lourdes, Puerto… Read more
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WPU VPs and Researchers Take Center Stage at the 1st PhiTon Congress and 6th AMSEM
Western Philippines University Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Lita B. Sopsop, earned the Best Natural Science Study (Oral Presentation) award for her research titled “Economic Value of the Mangrove Ecosystem in So. Marikit, Brgy. San Juan, Aborlan, Palawan, Philippines,” presented during the 1st Philippine Toxinology Congress and the 6th International Symposium on ASEAN Marine Animal and Snake Envenoming/Poisoning Management (AMSEM) held… Read more
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Western Philippines University hosts the 6th TBTI Philippines Executive Meeting
Western Philippines University hosted the 6th Too Big To Ignore (TBTI) Philippines Executive Meeting at the Audio-Visual Hall of WPU Puerto Princesa City Campus on November 20. The meeting gathered university presidents, chancellors, and key officials from 38 institutions nationwide, all committed to advancing the welfare and sustainability of the country’s small-scale fisheries sector. TBTI… Read more
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WPU and PCSDS Strengthen Partnership to Advance Research-Based Policy Development and Sustainable Resource Management in Palawan
Western Philippines University (WPU) has strengthened its commitment to environmental sustainability and evidence-based policymaking through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS), formalized on October 30, 2025. The agreement, signed by WPU President Dr. Amabel S. Liao and PCSDS Executive Director Atty. Teodoro Jose S. Matta, establishes a… Read more
