Northwest Samar State University formally presented its BANTAY (Blue Economy Action for Nurturing Transformation and Adaptive Yields), an extension project championed by the Graduate School, to the Philippines Coast Guard’s CGSSIAC (Coast Guard Strategic Studies and Implementation Affairs Center), for exploring specific areas of collaborations on the implementation of the project
Mr. Jake B. Calagos served as the main presenter for the NWSSU team, led by Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV. The delegation also included Engr. Eugene S. Calong, Dr. Enrique B. Montecalvo, Dr. Ma. Bernadette A. Lucero, Dr. Myra L. Pilpa, Dr. Ana Gretchen D. Tobe, Mr. Clark Mujeres, and Mr. Neil Getalado. Their proposal introduces a multi-sectoral framework that integrates participatory engagement, policy alignment, and technological innovation to promote sustainable coastal economies.
Personnel from the CGSSIAC, led by Capt. Jomel Q. Panes, PCG (Chief of the Doctrine, Strategy, and Policy Division), attended the presentation alongside Lieutenant Commander Lenar Augustus A. Limbag, PCG (Chief, Office of Strategy Management), and Commander Aileen P. Cainap, PCG (Chief, Office of Strategic and Special Studies). Their participation reinforced the importance of strategic alignment between academic research and maritime governance.
The BANTAY Project employs a Blue Economy approach that emphasizes the responsible and sustainable use of ocean resources to improve livelihoods, encourage economic diversification, and ensure long-term ecosystem health. Framed within a three-year timeline, the project outlines a progression from initiation and capacity building in the first year to implementation and scaling in the second, and sustainability and institutionalization in the third.
The presentation underscored the project’s goal to enhance coastal resilience through climate-smart fisheries, ecosystem-based adaptation strategies, and inclusive education campaigns. It also highlighted the need for strong partnerships among local stakeholders, government agencies, private institutions, and community organizations to ensure broad-based support and effective governance.
In response to worsening climate challenges—such as overfishing, unpredictable weather patterns, and habitat degradation—the BANTAY Project seeks to equip fisherfolk with the tools, knowledge, and support systems necessary to sustain both environmental conservation and economic stability. By anchoring its strategies in community realities and scientific research, the project envisions long-term, scalable solutions tailored to the specific needs of vulnerable coastal areas.
NwSSU’s collaboration with the CGSSIAC reflects its growing commitment to producing research-driven initiatives with real-world impact. The event also marked an important step in aligning academic proposals with the country’s marine development agenda under the Blue Economy framework.