DOrSU, EGIP Foundation to Collaborate on Mangrove Reforestation Program
The Euro Generics International Philippines Foundation (EGIPF), Inc., met with Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) President Dr. Roy G. Ponce on November 10, 2025, to discuss strengthened collaboration on environmental conservation and sustainable development initiatives, particularly the adoption of a new mangrove reforestation site in Davao Oriental.
Present during the meeting were Alec van Dierendonck, EGIPF President; Celina Anna van Dierendonck, Executive Director; Lysle Ann Quema, Operations Administrator; and Eleuterio Jr. C. Avergonzado, Research and Reforestation Officer. Also in attendance was Dr. Jonathan S. Cabrera, DOrSU’s Director for Research.
During the discussion, EGIPF presented its ongoing efforts and advocacy for forest and coastal ecosystem restoration, emphasizing its commitment to adopt and develop a new mangrove reforestation site within the province. Both parties also explored the establishment of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to formalize the partnership and expand collaboration in research, extension, and community engagement activities focused on biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.
Following the meeting, the EGIPF delegation toured DOrSU’s Artificial Coral Reef Production Facility, a pioneering initiative established in partnership with rrreefs, a socio-ecological impact organization based in Zürich, Switzerland. The facility supports ongoing marine restoration and conservation efforts in Pujada Bay, where artificial reef structures are being deployed to rehabilitate degraded coral ecosystems and enhance marine biodiversity.
EGIP Foundation has long been a steadfast partner of DOrSU in its biodiversity and conservation efforts. In previous years, EGIP collaborated with the university and other partners in the Biodiversity Assessment Project of the Municipality of Tarragona, particularly at the Baguan Watershed and Mount Mayo Key Biodiversity Area in Davao Oriental. The project produced significant research and policy outputs, including a coloring book that featured the rich flora and fauna of the Baguan Watershed, distributed to students to promote environmental awareness.
As a non-profit, non-government organization, the Euro Generics International Philippines Foundation (EGIPF), Inc. advocates for biodiversity conservation through reforestation, forest protection, and sustainable management of coastal and upland ecosystems. The foundation works closely with Tribal and Indigenous communities, local governments, and academic institutions to foster environmental stewardship, strengthen community resilience, and promote sustainable livelihoods through science-based and participatory approaches.
Both EGIPF and DOrSU reaffirmed their shared commitment to protecting and restoring natural ecosystems in Davao Oriental, underscoring the vital role of partnerships in addressing environmental challenges and building a sustainable future for generations to come.
