MAFAR-BARMM and MSU-TCTO sign Tawi-Tawi PRSA Project MOA

MAFAR-BARMM and MSU-TCTO signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) yesterday, July 2, at the Conference Room, Sabdani Bulante Hall, expressing the parties' intention to implement the "Participatory Resource and Socio-economic Assessment (PRSA) of Selected Sites in Tawi-Tawi" project. This six-month project will evaluate coastal marine habitats and fishing communities in Tawi-Tawi's socioeconomic situations. The geographic scope covers a few barangays in Bongao, Simunul, Tandubas, and South Ubian municipalities in Tawi-Tawi, while the collected data should reflect sustainable resource management, conservation, and community development. Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension Prof. Richard Muallil highlighted that the MOA signing represents an opportunity to work together for the betterment of Tawi-Tawi and the well-being of the fishing community. Director Mohammad Taha Pendaliday of Research Regulatory Services conveyed his message and his commitment to continuous collaboration between MSU Tawi-Tawi and MAFAR. He expressed trust in the University and emphasized the ministry's view of MSU-TCTO as an integral part of BARMM. He credited PD Nami for his contributions to community development, particularly in coastal areas, and expressed hope for further collaboration with the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension to address common challenges. MAFAR Tawi-Tawi Provincial Director Dr. Aidarus I. Nami also delivered his message and emphasized MAFAR's mandate to enhance fisheries, build resilient coastal resources, and support fishing communities. He reiterated the importance of working together towards a common goal. Chancellor Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali highlighted several key points during her speech. She celebrated July as a productive month with 41 research articles published in the first and second quarters. Emphasizing the interconnected nature of fisheries and forestry, she noted that this project falls under their shared umbrella, much like cousins. She underscored the University’s commitment to the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), viewing the project as a valuable opportunity to advance these goals. Chancellor Sali extended her congratulations and gratitude for the trust and committed partnership to MSU-TCTO, reaffirming the university's long-term commitment to contributing knowledge and supporting community development. The MOA signing is the dawn of a brighter future for the coastal towns of Tawi-Tawi. MAFAR-BARMM and MSU-TCTO's unity is the key to long-term resource management, fostering community growth, knowledge dissemination, and a collection of precious data that will contribute to the growth and development of these potential areas. Contributor: Yennyriza T. Abduraup (Staff, OVCRE) #iLoveMSUTCTO #SmartGreenResilient #CreatingOpportunities #TransformingLives