Mindanao State University – General Santos, under the leadership of Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas, proudly announces the formal signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with the Local Government Unit of General Santos City led by Mayor Lorelie G. Pacquiao and the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape – Protected Area Management Board for the Establishment, Operation, and Management of the Gensan Coastal and Marine Conservation and Research Center.
The agreement, finalized on May 16, 2025, marks a significant milestone in MSU-Gensan’s steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, research excellence, and community partnership. The center will serve as a hub for scientific research, conservation initiatives, education, and community engagement aimed at protecting, conserving, and sustaining the coastal and marine environments of General Santos and Sarangani Bay.
Chancellor Abantas expressed his enthusiasm for this collaborative effort, stating:
“This agreement is more than just a document; it is a shared promise to future generations that we will take bold, deliberate steps to protect our marine and coastal resources. It underscores our responsibility as a university to advance science-based solutions while empowering local communities.”
Mayor Lorelie G. Pacquiao also emphasized the LGU’s strong support for sustainable development and marine conservation, recognizing the critical importance of safeguarding Sarangani Bay, a vital natural resource for food security, tourism, and local livelihoods.
The new Gensan Coastal and Marine Conservation and Research Center will conduct cutting-edge research on marine biodiversity, coastal ecosystems, and sustainable fisheries. It will implement conservation and habitat restoration projects, promote environmental education and public awareness campaigns, support local communities in developing sustainable livelihoods that align with conservation goals, and strengthen local, national, and international partnerships for marine conservation.
This initiative aligns with MSU-Gensan’s strategic vision of delivering meaningful research and extension services that address real-world challenges, while also reinforcing the Philippines’ commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water.
With this partnership, MSU-Gensan affirms its role as an academic institution dedicated to building a sustainable and resilient future for Mindanao and beyond.
