Ending the Month with ASCOT’s International Webinar on Forest Conservation – And There’s More to Come!
January 31, 2025 – ASCOT wrapped up the month by hosting its International Webinar on Forest Conservation, titled “The Bats, The Rodents, The Forest, and You.” Led by the School of Forestry and Environmental Sciences (SFES), the event emphasized the essential roles of bats and rodents in forest ecosystems, sparking awareness on the importance of conservation.
In collaboration with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), JSPS Alumni Association of the Philippines (JAAP), Central Luzon State University (CLSU), and Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), the webinar began with an inspiring audio-visual presentation about the missions of JAAP and ASCOT.
ASCOT’s Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ma. Luz Cabatan, and College President, Dr. Renato G. Reyes, opened the event, highlighting the significance of global partnerships in advancing environmental research. Officials from partner institutions, including Dr. Evaristo A. Abella of CLSU, Dr. Yoshio Otani of JSPS, and Dr. Geraldine C. Sanchez of PSAU, also expressed their support.
The event featured distinguished speakers on diverse conservation topics:
Dr. Diane Shiela Castillo (CLSU) – “Modeling the Distribution of Rodents and Bats to Optimize Conservation Strategies in the Philippines”
Prof. Dr. Takayoshi Sato (Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan) – “Development and Characteristics of Forest Planning in Japan”
Forester Merlita T. Agbayani (ASCOT) – “Frog Diversity Assessment in ASCOT’s Reservation Area in Bazal, Maria Aurora”
Dr. Luiza Manjuakim (Universiti Malaysia) – “Nutrient Dynamics in Tropical Montane Ecosystems”
Open forums, moderated by Dr. Eutiquio L. Rotaquio Jr., Atty. Karl Thomas D. Olivar, and Ms. Alyssa Macaraeg, encouraged discussions on forest conservation strategies. The webinar also showcased JSPS Scholarship and Fellowship Programs, opening doors for Filipino researchers to engage in global academic exchanges.
With closing remarks from Mr. Joseph T. Gonzales (ASCOT), Board Secretary V and Director, International, External and Alumni Services Office and Dr. Karl Marx A. Quiazon President, JAAP, this event marked another milestone in ASCOT’s international efforts, promoting environmental sustainability and global academic collaboration.
#ASCOT2025 #InternationalWebinar #ForestConservation #SDG15 #LifeonLand
