CITY OF MANILA (Oct. 28, 2026) – The University of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard signed a memorandum of understanding, Sept. 28 at the PCG Headquarters.
The MOU — to be implemented at the university by the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies and the Marine Science Institute, UP Diliman — formalizes the combined effort to promote collaboration in marine science education, research, and training, building on the parties’ longstanding partnership. UP Vice President for Research and Innovation Joel Joseph Marciano Jr. signed on behalf of the university, while Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan signed for PCG.
The MOU establishes a framework for possible joint activities in scientific research and policy development, including research and publications, sharing of facilities and equipment, and research implementation.
The linkage aligns with UP CIDS’ mandate to undertake multidisciplinary research that informs public policy and contributes to national development. Bridging scientific inquiry and policy research is seen to strengthen the translation of marine science into evidence-based policies and practical interventions that support maritime governance and marine resource conservation. The cooperation also advances the university’s broader commitment to research, public service, and generating knowledge that addresses pressing national concerns.
Among those who attended the signing ceremony were UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee; UPD Chancellor Edgardo Carlo Vistan II; UP CIDS Executive Director Rosalie Arcala Hall; UP MSI Professor Laura David; Assistant Professor Hildie Nacorda of the School of Environmental Science and Management, UP Los Baños; Dr. Benjamin Vallejo Jr., convenor of the UP CIDS Conservation and Biodiversity Program; and Dr. Rodrigo Ong, UP CIDS CBP research fellow.