06/08/2026
Following the successful marine conservation mentorship last June, the next phase of the Coastal Futures project brought Senior High School students of Sandoval National High School, Taytay, Palawan from the classroom into the field as they conducted their own coastal and marine research.
From July 24–31, 2026, the students participated in the Research Support Program of the Sulubaai Environmental Foundation, where they worked alongside SOA Palawan mentors Mr. Matthew Philip Gabinete and Mr. John Lloyd Durano, together with Mr. Noe Reyes of Sulubaai.
Working in four research teams, the students investigated phytoplankton diversity, shellfish gut content, post-larval fish species, and light trap catches in Shark Fin Bay, Pangatalan, and Sandoval Marine Protected Areas. Through field sampling, laboratory analysis, and species identification, they experienced the research process firsthand while generating data that contribute to a better understanding of Palawan's coastal ecosystems.
This milestone reflects the core of the Coastal Futures project—empowering young people to move beyond learning about marine conservation and become active contributors to it through citizen science, research, and mentorship.
Our heartfelt thanks to the Sulubaai Environmental Foundation for its continued partnership and guidance, and to the students and teachers of Sandoval National High School for their dedication and enthusiasm.
We look forward to sharing the outcomes of their research in the months ahead. 💙🌊
