Faculty researchers from the College of Marine and Allied Sciences (CMAS) and the College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) recently concluded a comprehensive 9-day Training of Trainers on Marine Litter Monitoring in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. Assistant Professors Lovella R. Calala and Ana Winnielyn J. Galeos from CMAS, alongside Mr. Ramon Francisco Q. Padilla from CAFES, were among the participants.

The training, held from November 6th to November 15th, 2023, was organized by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) of Australia. Dr. Kathryn J. Willis and Senior Scientist Dr. Britta Denise Hardesty led the sessions, focusing on current methodologies and technologies used in Plastic Litter Monitoring across Inland, River, Coastal, and Sea Surface Environments. Special emphasis was placed on the use of modified transect, trawl, and the Online Data Kit (ODK) App. 

Moreover, the event served as an invaluable platform for various research groups, including those from academic institutions, local government units (LGUs), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), to collaborate on establishing a baseline dataset for marine plastic litter in the Philippines. Specifically, Team MSUN, in collaboration with DENR regional offices, was tasked with assessing nine strategic sites in El Nido, Palawan. 

Highlighting the significance of this initiative, the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Hon. Hae Kyung Yu, paid a courtesy visit during the training. Ambassador Yu stressed the importance of finding solutions to mitigate plastic pollution in the country and reiterated the strong relationship between the Philippine and Australian governments, especially during these critical times. 

Anticipating future collaboration, CSIRO and the participating agencies aim to join forces in addressing the plastic pollution crisis by formulating science-based management policies. The exchange of expertise and knowledge among researchers and government entities is expected to pave the way for effective strategies in combating this pressing environmental issue. 

This training marks a crucial step towards a concerted effort in understanding, monitoring, and ultimately mitigating the threat of plastic pollution in the Philippines. The collaboration between local and international entities emphasizes the urgency and commitment to protect the marine ecosystem for future generations.