14/05/2026
AMSC joins Multi-Stakeholder Consultation for Lake Lanao Endemic Fish Conservation
Marawi City, Lanao del Sur | MAY 13, 2026- In a concerted effort to preserve the biological and cultural heritage of Lanao del Sur, representatives from Adiong Memorial State College (AMSC), Sir Jahirun Mungkon and Research Assistant Jabber Gumaga from AMSC College of Fisheries jointly with RA Ma'am Omaidah Adiong participated in the high-level Multi-Stakeholder Community Consultation held at the Provincial Social Hall, Provincial Capitol Complex yesterday.
The event focused on Project 6, titled "Sociocultural and Economic Dimensions of Resource Conservation and Management of Endemic Cyprinids in Lake Lanao". This initiative, supported by Mindanao State University, the Province of Lanao del Sur, and the DOST-PCAARRD, aims to address the dwindling populations of endemic fish species—specifically cyprinids—which have long been a staple of the local diet and economy.
The morning session featured a series of insightful messages from regional leaders. Forester Pili M. Papandayan (PENRO) and Dr. Annie Mae C. Berowa (Vice Chancellor for Research, MSU) emphasized the critical need for collaborative research. The Province of Lanao del Sur expressed its unwavering support for the project, highlighting that the conservation of Lake Lanao is not just an environmental issue, but a matter of food security and cultural identity for the Maranao people.
Following the messages, the technical analysis of the lake's ecosystem was presented through PESTLE findings by Prof. Norjannah Abantas-Manalocon, which examined the Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental factors impacting resource management.
During the technical segment, Program Leader Dr. Ma-Ann M. Camarin and Project 6 Leader Dr. Annie Rose C. Cadeliña provided a comprehensive overview of the research framework. A significant portion of the day was dedicated to the presentation of PESTLE analysis findings, which examined the Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental factors impacting the lake's ecosystem.
The consultation moved from theory to practice with a collaborative workshop session. Dr. Nimfa L. Bracamonte facilitated a detailed SWOT Analysis, allowing representatives from Adiong Memorial State College and other stakeholders to identify the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats regarding current conservation strategies for endemic cyprinids.
Accordingly, the conservation of Lake Lanao's endemic cyprinids requires more than just scientific data; it requires the collective will of the community and the dedication of our educational institutions.
Hosted by Sir Mark H. Andrino, LPT, the day concluded with a decisive call to action as stakeholders and partner agencies participated in a formal Pledge of Commitment signing. This ceremonial act reaffirmed the dedication of all involved parties to implementing the specific recommendations and research frameworks developed during the workshop followed by a ceremonial giving of certificates and a group photo session.