DOrSU Shares Insights at the First-ever PAMB Summit 2024
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) made significant contributions at the first-ever Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) Summit, held on November 21-22, 2024, at Adelina Hotel and Suites in the City of Mati. The summit, organized by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office – Davao Oriental (PENRO DavOr) in collaboration with the Eastern Mindanao Biodiversity Corridor (EMBC) Project, brought together key stakeholders to discuss critical concerns in biodiversity conservation and protected area management in the province.
As a plenary speaker, DOrSU President Dr. Roy G. Ponce, presented the university’s research initiatives focused on the conservation of protected areas throughout Davao Oriental. He emphasized the university’s role in fostering partnerships with local government units and other stakeholders to promote conservation priorities. Dr. Ponce also discussed how DOrSU’s research efforts have been instrumental in providing the scientific foundation for sound environmental policies and conservation strategies in the region.
Additionally, Asst. Prof. Jhonnel P. Villegas delivered a plenary talk titled “Human-Wildlife Interactions: Cultural Sensitivities and Perspectives Influence the Conservation of the Philippine Brown Deer,” where he highlighted the complex relationship between the Mandaya Indigenous Community and the Philippine Brown Deer. Asst. Prof. Villegas illustrated how cultural practices and traditional knowledge play an essential role in biodiversity conservation. His talk emphasized the importance of integrating local perspectives into conservation strategies to ensure their effectiveness and sustainability.
DOrSU’s active involvement in the summit underscores its important role as a member of the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary Protected Area Management Board (MHRWS-PAMB). As part of the board, DOrSU is involved in research, advocacy, and collaborative efforts to ensure the conservation and protection of the sanctuary’s diverse ecosystems.
This participation aligns with DOrSU’s broader commitment to advancing regenerative futures. With its regenerative futures vision, the university continues to champion ecological restoration and community-driven conservation practices, striving to integrate regenerative futures principles across all its academic, research, and outreach programs. By doing so, DOrSU aims to contribute to the long-term preservation of Davao Oriental’s natural resources while promoting inclusive communities, a thriving local economy, and environmental resilience for future generations.
