WPU College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences

23/09/2026

🌿📸 UNCOVERING HIDDEN HEIGHTS: Arboreal Camera Trapping for Binturong Research and Conservation 🐾🌳

Discover the hidden world of the forest canopy and learn how arboreal camera trapping is helping researchers better understand and conserve the elusive binturong.

Join us for an insightful scientific colloquium featuring research, innovative wildlife-monitoring techniques, and conservation perspectives on one of the Philippines’ fascinating forest mammals.

🔎 Topic: “Uncovering Hidden Heights: Arboreal Camera Trapping for Binturong Research and Conservation”

Let’s explore how technology can bring us closer to wildlife—even high above the forest floor. 🌳📷🐾

📚 Learn. Discover. Conserve.

15/09/2026

📍 ARE ALL POLLUTANTS IN THE SEDIMENT A RISK?

Not all pollutants found in sediments pose the same level of threat to aquatic ecosystems. But what determines whether a pollutant becomes biologically available, accumulates in organisms, moves through food webs, and ultimately creates an ecological risk?

Join us for an insightful morning of scientific discussion as the MS Fisheries and MS Marine Biology graduate students of the Western Philippines University – College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences (WPU-CFiNS) present their upcoming Scientific Colloquium.

🔬 COLLOQUIUM DETAILS

📌 Topic:
“ARE ALL POLLUTANTS IN THE SEDIMENT A RISK? Understanding Bioavailability, Bioaccumulation, Biomagnification, and Ecological Risk”

🎙️ Guest Speaker:
Genese Divine Cayabo-Sagala, PhD
CFiNS Faculty, Western Philippines University

📅 Date: September 21, 2026
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
📍 Venue: Bacosa Theater, Puerto Princesa Campus

From sediment chemistry and pollutant bioavailability to bioaccumulation, biomagnification, and ecological risk, this colloquium will explore an important question in aquatic environmental science: When does pollution in sediment become a real biological and ecological threat?

Whether you are a student, researcher, faculty member, environmental professional, or marine conservation enthusiast, we invite you to join this meaningful exchange of knowledge and perspectives.

🌱 Let’s deepen our understanding of aquatic pollution and strengthen our commitment to protecting our marine and freshwater ecosystems.

See you at the colloquium! 🌊🔬

15/09/2026

It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Dr. Sabine Schoppe. She was laid to rest peacefully in her childhood home on September 13, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

We remember her as a scholar, a guiding force in conservation, and a deeply cherished friend. In many ways, she shaped the lives of the people around her and the animals she so devotedly worked to protect. Her passing leaves a profound void in our hearts.

As we make the necessary arrangements for her memorial service in Puerto Princesa, we humbly ask for your prayers and thoughts. Further details will be shared as soon as they are finalized.

Thank you for your continued prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.

09/09/2026

🎉 CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR CFiNS RESEARCHERS! 🎉

The College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences (CFiNS) of Western Philippines University (WPU) proudly congratulates our faculty researchers on their recent publications in Q1- and Q4-ranked scientific journals!

These accomplishments demonstrate our faculty members’ dedication to advancing knowledge through relevant, innovative, and impactful research in fisheries, marine science, and the natural sciences. Your scholarly contributions not only strengthen the research culture of CFiNS but also contribute to addressing important challenges in aquatic resources and environmental science.

📚 RECENTLY PUBLISHED RESEARCH

Dr. Maria Mojena Gonzales-Plasus
Professor V, CFiNS

“Utilization of jack bean flour (Canavalia ensiformis) as feed ingredient for tilapia (Oreochromis sp.)”

🔗 https://journal.ipb.ac.id/jai/article/view/63005/33767

Niño Jess Mar F. Mecha
Assistant Professor II, CFiNS

Hannah Mae T. Catalayban
Instructor III, CFiNS

“Capture fishery profile of diamondback squid (Thysanoteuthis rhombus) (Troschel, 1857) in Rizal, Palawan, Philippines”

🔗 https://palawanscientist.org/tps/article/view/480

John Roderick V. Madarcos
Assistant Professor II, CFiNS

“Perceived past and future changes in marine environments: community perspectives from coastal Vietnam”

🔗 https://www.frontiersin.org/.../fmars.2026.1874319/full

👏 Congratulations, Dr. Gonzales-Plasus, Asst. Prof. Mecha, Asst. Prof. Madarcos, and Instr. Catalayban!

Your achievements are a testament to the expertise, dedication, and research excellence of the CFiNS faculty. May your continued pursuit of scientific inquiry inspire our students, fellow researchers, and the wider academic community.

Here’s to more research breakthroughs, meaningful collaborations, and impactful publications! 🐟🔬📚

30/08/2026

25/08/2026

Seeing More, Protecting Better 🐟💦🛡

How can accessible ocean technology 👨🏼‍💻 help us better understand—and ultimately protect—the Philippines’ rich marine biodiversity?

The Western Philippines University – College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences (CFINS) is honored to welcome Titus Cañete, President of the Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute, as our speaker for the upcoming colloquium.

Join us as he explores “Seeing More, Protecting Better: Accessible Ocean Technology for Philippine Marine Conservation”—a timely discussion on how innovative, accessible technologies can strengthen marine research, conservation, and stewardship in the Philippines.

💧See more. Understand better. Protect what matters.

📍 Western Philippines University
🎓 College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences Colloquium

23/07/2026

The College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences of Western Philippines University in cooperation with the College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences Student Organization, WPU Palaisdaan Society and WPU Begsay cordially invites faculty members, researchers, students, and stakeholders to a Colloquium on Marine Science featuring Dr. Elin Torell, Director of the Coastal Institute at the University of Rhode Island💦🐬

Gain valuable perspectives on contemporary fisheries issues affecting coastal communities and marine ecosystems across the globe. This colloquium will highlight current research, management strategies, and international experiences in addressing critical fisheries concerns⚛👩🏿‍🔬
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13/07/2026

🎉🌟 From Double to Triple Success: Celebrating Leadership, Excellence, and the Power of Women in Science 🌟🎉

The College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences (CFiNS) proudly celebrates a historic and extraordinary milestone—a triple success that highlights the College’s enduring commitment to excellence in science, education, research, and leadership.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our distinguished faculty members on their appointments to key leadership positions in the University:

📍Professor Lota Alcantara-Creencia – Vice President for Academic Affairs

📍Professor Jhonamie Mabuhay-Omar – Vice President for Research, Innovation, Development, and Extension

📍Professor Ria S. Sariego – Vice President for Finance and Administration

With these appointments, the College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences now holds three of the four Vice President positions in the University—an exceptional achievement that reflects the competence, dedication, and leadership capabilities nurtured within the College.

This milestone is made even more remarkable by the prominent role of women leaders in shaping the future of the University. In fields where women have historically been underrepresented in both science and executive leadership, these appointments stand as a powerful reminder that excellence knows no gender. Their achievements demonstrate how women continue to break barriers, lead transformative change, and make meaningful contributions to higher education, research, innovation, and institutional development.

As scientists, educators, researchers, and administrators, these leaders embody the values of integrity, service, and academic excellence. Their success not only brings honor to CFiNS but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring scientists, researchers, students, and future women leaders who dare to pursue their ambitions and make a difference.

This historic moment reflects the strength of the College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences in producing leaders who excel not only in their respective disciplines but also in guiding institutions toward greater heights of achievement and innovation.

The entire CFiNS community proudly celebrates this remarkable accomplishment and extends its best wishes to our Vice Presidents as they embark on this new chapter of service and leadership.

🌟 Congratulations, Prof. Creencia, Prof. Omar, and Prof. Sariego! Your achievements are a testament to the transformative power of education, science, and leadership....

13/07/2026

🎓✨ A Double Celebration of Academic Excellence!

The College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences proudly celebrates the remarkable academic achievements of two of our esteemed faculty members:

🎓 Dr. Cayabo-Sagala for successfully earning her Doctor of Philosophy in Aquatic Science and Technology Degree from the National Kaoshiung University of Science and Technology.

🎓 Ms. Escalante for successfully completing her Master’s Degree in Fisheries-major in Fish Processing Technology from the University of the Philippines-Visayas.

Having earned their postgraduate degrees from reputable universities, their accomplishments stand as a testament not only to their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to lifelong learning but also to the quality of instruction, mentorship, and academic culture fostered within the College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences.

Their achievements reflect the College’s continuing commitment to developing highly qualified faculty members who are equipped with advanced knowledge, research expertise, and professional competence. As faculty member, they embody the College’s vision of academic excellence and its mission of producing leaders in fisheries, marine, and natural sciences.

We take pride in celebrating this significant milestone and recognizing the hard work and sacrifices that made it possible. Their success serves as an inspiration to our students, fellow faculty members, and the broader university community, demonstrating that excellence in education begins with educators who continuously strive for growth and innovation.

🌟 Congratulations, Dr. Cayabo-Sagala and Ms. Escalante! May your achievements inspire future generations and further strengthen the College's pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, and public service..

12/06/2026

📢 Attention Incoming First Year Students!

The Western Philippines University – College of Fisheries and Natural Sciences (CFNS) invites all incoming students to register for the CFiNS Bridging Program 2026, scheduled on June 18–19, 2026.

This two-day program is designed to help students strengthen their understanding of Chemistry and English, providing a solid academic foundation for their college studies. Through interactive discussions, review sessions, and guided learning activities, participants will enhance their scientific knowledge and develop the skills necessary to succeed in their chosen degree programs.

Whether you want to refresh key concepts, build confidence in science subjects, or prepare for the academic challenges ahead, this Bridging Program is an excellent opportunity to start your CFNS journey on the right track.

📅 Date: June 18–19, 2026
🎯 Focus Areas: Chemistry and Physics
👨‍🎓 Open to: Incoming CFNS Students

📌 Register now by completing the registration form below. Slots may be limited, so interested participants are encouraged to sign up as early as possible.

Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf3EwefL2WnWHauoBWJiVPW_EehgPZxAWjti3jFpU6gk2acCg/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=104345178376392967915

Bridge the gap, strengthen your foundation, and get ready to thrive at CFNS! 🌊🔬📚