The 9^th International Conference and Scientific Meeting of the Philippine Network of Educators on Environment kicked-off last August 23, 2016 at the Prospero Pichay, Jr. Gym, Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU) Main Campus, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

With the theme “Linking Environmental Education With Climate Change Resilience and Green Growth”, this year’s conference attracted more than 150 professors, researchers and students from different state universities and colleges in the country, as well as representatives from the government and international agencies.

In his keynote speech, Dr. Ruperto S. Sangalang, Commissioner, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), urged participants to pursue researches in climate resiliency and make sure its outputs will really benefit the Filipino people. “Make sure the technologies you develop will benefit our countrymen”, Dr. Sangalang added.

Paper presentations highlighted the parallel sessions on day two. The School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM) Research, Extension and Professional Staff (REPS) attended athe event presented papers based on their respective studies.

Ms. Loucel E. Cui, presented the research entitled “ Diminutive Freshwater Fish of Sta. Cruz River System, Laguna Philippines”, while Mr. Thaddeus P. Lawas presented a component of his project entitled “ Economic Impacts of the World Food Programme-assisted Disaster Risk Reduction Projects of 10 Municipalities in the Philippines. Dr. Marisa J. Sobremisana presented a paper entitled “Swine Wastewater Treatment Using Constructed Wetlands: a Review”. Dr. Yusuf A. Sucol lectured on “One Health in Action: Exposing the Potential Risks of the Fraudulent Use of Non-food Grade Artificial Dyes in Food Fishes”. Meanwhile, For. Sofia A. Alaira delivered a talk on “Diversity Assessment of Indigenous Tree Species in Mt. Banoi, Batangas City.

On day three, participants can join one of the two field trips arranged by the organizers. Participants can either visit the Enchanted River in Hinatuan City or join the island hopping on the Britannia Group of Islands in Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

Andrew Eusebio S. Tan, President of PNEE, said the organization is very grateful to its partner, the SDSSU for hosting the conference this year. For his part, Dr. Baceledes R. Estal, President of SDSSU, said the whole academic community of SDSSU is really excited to host this big event, which is also a big opportunity to showcase the beautiful province of Surigao del Sur.