12/05/2026
๐๐ก ๐ง๐๐ ๐ก๐๐ช๐ฆ: ๐ ๐ฆ๐จ ๐จ๐ฝ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ธ๐ฒ ๐๐ฎ๐ป๐ฎ๐ผ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฐ๐ต ๐๐ถ๐๐ต ๐ก๐ฒ๐ ๐๐พ๐๐ถ๐ฝ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ข๐๐๐น๐ฎ๐
MARAWI CITY โ The Mindanao State University College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (MSU-CFAS) has officially modernized its research capabilities following the full delivery of a โฑ1-million equipment outlay this February. The procurement features high-specification tools designed for the "current profiling" and bathymetric mapping of Lake Lanao. Among the new assets are echo sounders, underwater GoPro cameras, and three complete sets of professional scuba diving gear, all of which have undergone rigorous inspection and orientation in collaboration with the universityโs Property and Budget divisions.
Central to this modernization is the Cyprinids Research Project, a vital initiative funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). This partnership underscores the national importance of preserving Lake Lanaoโs endemic species. To ensure the sustainability of this significant investment, the college has integrated comprehensive insurance, warranties, and calibration services into the procurement package. These safeguards are essential given the critical nature of the equipment, which includes parameter sensors used to monitor pH levels and chlorophyllโvital indicators of water quality that directly influence local fish populations.
Sir Jollymar M. Capistrano, MFM, RFP, who was instrumental in the realization of this project, emphasized that these high-spec tools are already being deployed, with "refresher" training sessions underway to ensure all data collected remains accurate and scientifically sound.
Beyond faculty-led research, the new laboratory and field tools are being positioned as a resource for the entire university community. The college has announced that the equipment is open to thesis advisees, graduate students, and even collaborators from any entities it can and should cater to. By opening access to these specialized tools, MSU-CFAS aims to foster an interdisciplinary environment where students and researchers from various relevant fields can contribute to the preservation of the regionโs aquatic resources.
The ongoing assessment project is scheduled to span two years, reaching its conclusion in February 2027. Researchers, supported by the data and technical oversight provided by Sir Jollymar M. Capistrano, stressed that the project follows a strict "due process" that cannot be rushed, as the ultimate goal is to provide data that benefits the local economy and society without causing adverse harm to the environment. This methodical approach ensures that the final results will offer a reliable blueprint for the sustainable management of Lake Lanaoโs delicate ecosystem.
With the full backing of the University President, the MSU-CFAS faculty expressed deep gratitude for the support that has allowed them to finalize their inventory. "Finally, we can now proceed to assessment with full gears," the faculty representative shared, expressing total confidence in the project's success. As the college moves forward with its fieldwork, the local community can expect guaranteed, evidence-based results that prioritize both environmental health and regional economic stability.
