SU - Center for Tropical Conservation Studies - CenTrop

24/08/2026

Five years in the making—and finally, a bigger, semi-wild home for one of our Philippine crocodiles. 🐊

Nearly five years in the making, this milestone is a testament to a vision first conceptualized by the late National Scientist, Dr. Alcala—and to the planning, coordination, preparation, and hard work that eventually made it possible.

We are deeply grateful to have successfully transferred Philippine crocodiles from the SU Marine Laboratory to CenTrop Palinpinon.
This transfer carries special significance: these crocodiles are the only individuals known to carry genes originating from Negros, making them especially valuable to Philippine crocodile conservation and genetic research. 🧬🐊

The activity also strengthened conservation capacity. Crocodylus Porosus Philippines Inc. (CPPI) facilitated hands-on crocodile handling training for CenTrop and SUAKCREM staff, building their knowledge and skills in the safe, proper, and humane handling of Philippine crocodiles.

Tissue samples were also collected for a DOST-supported student thesis on Philippine crocodile DNA, contributing valuable genetic information that may support future research and conservation planning.

The crocodiles are now housed in a larger, more natural, semi-wild enclosure—giving them more space, opportunities to express natural behaviors, and improved conditions for long-term welfare.

A heartfelt thank you to CPPI for the technical support, training, partnership, and trust that helped bring this long-envisioned initiative to fruition.
From a vision conceptualized nearly five years ago by the late Dr. Alcala, to a successful transfer this month—bigger space, better preparedness, new research opportunities, and the preservation of a unique Negros genetic legacy.

One more meaningful step forward for Philippine crocodile conservation.
Live. Conserve. Protect.�🇵🇭🐊🧬

29/06/2026

To our valued friends,

Due to the recent confirmed cases of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Negros, CENTROP will be temporarily closed until further notice as a precautionary measure.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Updates regarding our reopening will be announced as soon as they become available.
Thank you for your continued support.

– CENTROP Management

25/06/2026

In observance of the 2026 Philippine Arbor Day, CENTROP student-volunteers joined a tree-growing activity organized by Energy Development Corporation (EDC) at the SU-CENTROP Arboretum in Palinpinon, contributing to ongoing efforts in environmental conservation and sustainable reforestation.

Live.Conserve.Protect 🌸🍀🌴☘️🌿

21/06/2026

Meet the newest faces of CenTrop. We are so thrilled to welcome our new set of volunteers from different colleges for their energy, passion, and dedication to spreading conservation awareness to our community. Looking forward to work and learn with you.

Live.Conserve.Protect 🙈🍀🐸🐢🐯🦌🐗

15/06/2026

Conservation On The Go! 🎒🦌

CENTROP is excited to announce the launch of our new merchandise collection, featuring some of the incredible wildlife species in our facility!

Available in Messenger Bag and Tote Bag designs featuring:

🪽 Negros Bleeding Heart
🦌 Visayan Spotted Deer
🐆 Visayan Leopard Cat
🪶 Visayan Hornbill (design available but not shown in photos)

🏷️ Prices
💼 Messenger Bag – ₱350.00
👜 Tote Bag – ₱300.00

📍 Available now at Science Complex 113.

🖌️Designed by Katha Paet
📷Shot by Jeff Jamolod
🚶‍♂️In frame: Alyza Arguelles, Matthew Domen, Princess Ferraren, Chellezy Malang, Deniel Montemayor, Jovie Vallecer

14/06/2026

🌿🦌 The Center for Tropical Conservation Studies (CENTROP) is now welcoming passionate and dedicated volunteers to join our growing community!

Are you interested in wildlife, conservation, environmental advocacy, or simply looking for a meaningful organization to be part of? This is your chance!

📅 Orientation Schedule
🕚 June 19, 2026 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 NN
📍 Science Complex Building (ROOM 236)

This year, CENTROP is opening its doors not only to Biology students but to students from all programs at Silliman University. If you have the passion and willingness to learn, you’re welcome to join us!

Invite your friends, spread the word, and become part of a community committed to conservation and environmental stewardship. 🌱

See you there!

03/06/2026

𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐏𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐒 𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 🏞️💚

Peatlands are known to provide water regulation ecosystem services and have been seen as nature’s sponges as they absorb water during wet periods, which in turn mitigates floods, and slowly release it during the dry season. They also serve as storages for carbon which lessens the effects of climate change.

Within the Eastern Mindanao Biodiversity Corridor lies the Caimpugan Peatland of Agusan del Sur. It is considered as one of the most carbon-dense terrestrial ecosystems in the Philippines and supports a high level of biodiversity which eventually provides livelihood opportunities to local communities within the peatland. In the Mindoro Biodiversity Corridor, the Kisloyan Peatland serves as a water basin that prevents soil erosion in the upland areas of the municipality of Victoria.

Let’s take this time to realize that even peatlands make a huge impact in sustaining and protecting the shared landscapes and benefits to both people and biodiversity!

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

01/06/2026

Huge shoutout to our interns for finishing their fieldwork and bringing innovative ideas to our animal enrichment projects.

From the trails of fieldwork 🪾 to designing creative animal enrichment projects inside the center, your dedication an impact on our conservation efforts. Thanks to your hard work, our resident wildlife—including the endangered Philippine Spotted Deer and Visayan Warty Pigs—enjoy a more engaging, stimulating environment.

Your energy and passion have truly elevated CenTrop.Thank you for your dedication to protecting our species. 🦌🐆🐗🐊🕊️🐢

Live.Conserve.Protect