ANTIQUE – The University of Antique (UA) and the Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources, Inc. have formalized their partnership to strengthen environmental conservation initiatives through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on February 6.
The agreement aims to enhance collaboration between the two institutions in promoting conservation programs, particularly in the provinces of Antique and Aklan. These initiatives will cover key ecological areas, including the Central Panay Mountain Range (CPMR), the Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park (NPPNP), and the Sibalom–Tipuluan River Watershed.
Under the partnership, both parties will work together on scientific and social research, inclusive protected area governance, watershed management, citizen science and ecosystem monitoring, Nature-based Solutions (NbS), sustainable livelihood programs, and Communication, Education, and Public Awareness (CEPA) activities.
University officials who signed the MOU were led by UA President Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr., together with Dr. Jelyn O. Alentajan, vice president for research, extension, and innovation, and Dr. Wilfredo Muhat, director of the Extension Unit.
Meanwhile, the Haribon Foundation delegation was headed by Noel A. Resurreccion, manager for site conservation and governance, along with members of the foundation’s conservation and research team.
The partnership is expected to strengthen local conservation efforts by integrating academic expertise with field-based environmental initiatives, while also promoting community participation and sustainable development in ecologically significant areas in Western Visayas./PN
