The Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS) project, led by the JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES), was awarded first place in the Search for Best Community Outreach/Extension Program, organized by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA) Inc.

The recognition was conferred on December 4, 2020, during the Annual General Assembly held via Zoom Conference, reflecting the resilience of academic institutions in maintaining community engagement amid pandemic restrictions. The award entry was submitted on November 12, 2020, and highlighted IBMS’s outstanding initiatives in marine conservation, community involvement, and sustainable resource management.

This achievement affirms the JBLFMU CES’s dedication to fostering effective partnerships between academic institutions and local communities, promoting environmental stewardship, and serving as a model for other universities. Through IBMS, JBLFMU demonstrates how education, research, and community outreach can converge to generate meaningful, lasting impact in Guimaras and beyond.

Recognition is more than a badge of honor; it is a tribute to the people, passion, and purpose behind every meaningful effort. For John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU), recent accolades affirm decades of unwavering dedication to environmental protection, community service, and nation-building. These recognition celebrate not only the university’s accomplishments but also its identity as a community committed to creating lasting, positive change.

JBLFMU extends heartfelt thanks to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for acknowledging the university’s efforts in conservation and sustainability initiatives on June 30, 2025. This recognition highlights the impact of JBLFMU’s projects, from marine protection programs to community outreach, highlighting the collaborative efforts of students, faculty, and partners.

Such acknowledgment strengthens the university’s resolve to continue advancing environmental stewardship and sustainable development, inspiring collective action toward a greener, more resilient, and sustainable future for Guimaras and the nation.

The Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS), a public–private partnership between the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) and the Municipality of Nueva Valencia, was awarded Best Performing Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) during the 2025 Guimaras Environmental Award and Recognition held at The Pitstop Hotel on November 28, 2025.

The award recognizes the project’s strong conservation leadership, consistent scientific monitoring, and effective collaboration with local communities and key partners.

The award was received by Hon. Emmanuel C. Galila, Municipal Mayor of Nueva Valencia; Aljun Margallo, Protected Area Superintendent; and Dr. Mary Mar E. Jaleco, representing JBLFMU.

Serving as a model of cooperative governance, the IBMS continues to advance research, education, and community-based resource management, making it a leading benchmark for marine conservation efforts in Guimaras. 

The annual coastal clean-up drive of JBLFMU CES is a key initiative to protect and restore coastal ecosystems by removing waste from the shores, ponds, and mangrove areas of the JBLFMU Ecological Park, the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS), and surrounding coastal communities.

In collaboration with the JBLFMU CES, the Municipal Agricultural Services Office of Nueva Valencia led the 2022 coastal clean-up at the JBLFMU Ecological Park and IBMS on September 14, 2022. Over 50 community residents from Barangays Poblacion and Igang actively participated, fostering local engagement in environmental stewardship. The Department Head of the Municipal Agricultural Services Office, also serving as the Protected Area Superintendent of IBMS, further strengthened community-led conservation efforts and partnerships for sustainable coastal management.

The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) CES  annually leads a coastal clean-up drive to restore and protect coastal and marine ecosystems. This science-based initiative removes waste from the shores, ponds, and mangrove areas of the JBLFMU Ecological Park, the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS), and surrounding coastal communities, promoting sustainable environmental stewardship.

On September 30, 2022, over 140 participants from JBLFMU’s six partner barangays, Poblacion, Igang, Sto. Domingo, Magamay, Pandaraonan, and Dolores, along with personnel from the PNP, MLGU, JBLFMU Ecopark, and other stakeholders, actively joined the clean-up drive. The activity was conducted in support of National Clean-Up Month, under the theme “Fighting for Trash-Free Seas Pilipinas: Ending Trash at Source.”

In tandem with the coastal clean-up, the scubasurero underwater clean-up engaged seventeen licensed scuba divers from the Philippine Coast Guard, JBLFMU, DENR-PENRO Guimaras, Guimaras Environment and Natural Resources Office, and LGU Nueva Valencia. Divers retrieved debris such as nylon strings and empty bottles from the IBMS core zones, protecting critical marine habitats.

The event also included environmental protection IEC sessions and orientations on health and safety protocols, integrating community education with hands-on conservation action. Through these activities, JBLFMU CES fosters community participation, strengthens marine ecosystem resilience, and contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 14, SDG 11, and SDG 3.

September 30, 2022 - Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) is a key strategy of JBLFMU CES to raise awareness, disseminate critical information, and inspire positive action among target audiences for environmental sustainability.

Prior to the coastal clean-up drive and scubasurero activities, JBLFMU CES Officer Ms. Mary Mar E. Jaleco provided an orientation and updates on the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary Project, emphasizing its purpose, objectives, and the significance of the clean-up activities. She also highlighted the impact of the projects, including the awards and recognitions received.

PENRO Rustata delivered a message on the importance of environmental protection and preservation, expressing appreciation for the overwhelming support and participation of the community and partner agencies.

A total of 170 participants from JBLFMU partner communities and agencies, including DENR-PENRO Guimaras, GENRO, MLGU of Nueva Valencia, PCG, PNP, EarthingPH, and the barangays of Poblacion, Igang, Sto. Domingo, Magamay, Pandaraonan, and Dolores, actively joined the activities.

To ensure participant safety, Dr. Shirley G. Hampac and Ms. Krizna Joy Belencion discussed health and safety protocols prior to the clean-up activities, reinforcing JBLFMU CES’s commitment to safe and sustainable environmental action.

Through IEC, JBLFMU CES effectively combines education, community engagement, and hands-on conservation, contributing to resilient coastal communities, healthier oceans, and the achievement of global Sustainable Development Goals.

The Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Consultative Meeting aimed to reinforce the Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign on the rules and regulations governing MPAs in the Municipality of Nueva Valencia, particularly as the Province of Guimaras reopens to tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic.

A key concern raised during the meeting was the illegal entry of boats and jet skis into the MPAs’ core zones, which threatens the integrity of marine ecosystems.

To address this, JBLFMU CES Officer recommended that all resorts, tour operators, and water sports associations be provided with maps of all MPAs, clearly indicating core zones along with corresponding rules and regulations, to ensure awareness and support for marine conservation efforts. The establishment of signage, buoys, and markers in all MPAs was also encouraged to enhance compliance and protect critical habitats.

This consultative approach promotes sustainable coastal tourism, community engagement, and effective MPA management, contributing to the achievement of SDG 14, SDG 11, and SDG 17 by safeguarding marine biodiversity while fostering partnerships for environmental stewardship.

The IBMS Mangrove Nursery is a collaborative project of the Municipal Government of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, under the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), in partnership with John B. Lacson Foundation- Community Extension Services. The initiative aims to support the sustainable operation and development of the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS) while providing alternative livelihoods for local fisherfolk through the propagation and sale of mangrove seedlings.

The nursery, located at JBLFMU Ecological Park, is funded by MENRO Nueva Valencia with a budget of Php50,000, supporting the construction, propagation, and planting activities.

On October 16, 2022, the project team began the layout, design, and preparation of the Mangrove Nursery Station. The station is expected to be ready by the second week of November for bagging, planting, and propagation of mangrove seedlings, contributing both to coastal ecosystem restoration and sustainable community livelihoods.

Through this project, JBLFMU CES and its partners advance resilient coastal ecosystems, sustainable livelihoods, and community-based environmental stewardship, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals for marine and terrestrial conservation as well as inclusive economic growth.

The Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS), a joint initiative of JBLFMU CES and the Municipal Government of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, was launched in June 2010 to protect, rehabilitate, and conserve the marine environment of Igang Bay. On November 11, 2022, the IBMS Management Board convened to review updates on milestones, impacts, and awards, assess the management plan and organizational structure, and discuss proposed plans and programs. Key priorities identified included updating the Management Plan and restructuring the board, with a dedicated workshop scheduled for the first quarter of 2023. These initiatives aim to strengthen governance, enhance science-based management, and improve community engagement. Through collaborative efforts, JBLFMU CES and its partners continue to promote sustainable marine conservation, resilient coastal ecosystems, and effective stakeholder partnerships, contributing to the achievement of global Sustainable Development Goals 14, 11, and 17.

Since 2010, JBLFMU CES has been an active member of the Integrated Coastal Management (ICM) sub-committee, following the establishment of the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS). ICM empowers local communities to participate actively in marine conservation and food security. Supported by local governments, agencies, research institutions, and private partners, fishers and community members are trained in coastal protection and sustainable resource management. On November 18, 2022, the ICM chairman called a meeting to review previous minutes, discuss arising matters, receive agency accomplishment reports, and address current issues. JBLFMU CES reported accomplishments from June to November 2022, including patrolling and surveillance, establishment of a mangrove nursery, activities for National Clean-Up Month, fisherfolk livelihood projects, updates on the IBMS project, and provision of technical support to other MPAs. These initiatives strengthen community stewardship, sustainable coastal management, and resilience of marine ecosystems. 

To address the continuous violation of the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS) core zone, the Bantay Dagat Team requested the re-establishment of buoys and markers to clearly define no-take boundaries. On November 19, 2022, JBLFMU CES, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Nueva Valencia, spearheaded the deployment of eight strategically placed buoys with markers. The activity was supported by the Municipal Environment Office, IBMS Bantay Dagat, and volunteers from PCGA, reinforcing community-led marine protection. These buoys and markers serve as visible boundaries to prevent illegal entry, enhance enforcement of sanctuary rules, and protect critical marine habitats. This initiative strengthens science-based management, sustainable coastal governance, and marine biodiversity conservation, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 14 and 11.

The bagging of mangrove seedlings is a key sub-activity of the IBMS Mangrove Nursery, aimed at supporting mangrove reforestation in the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS) and other Marine Protected Areas, while providing alternative livelihood opportunities for local fisherfolk. On December 11, 2022, a total of 2,000 mangrove propagules were bagged through the combined efforts of JBLFMU-Molo NSTP students, other volunteers, and SAFA members. The activity was spearheaded and organized by JBLFMU CES, demonstrating a collaborative, community-centered approach to coastal ecosystem restoration. Through this initiative, JBLFMU CES promotes sustainable marine conservation, resilient coastal habitats, and socio-economic benefits for local communities, advancing the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 14, 15, and 8.

The CoMSCA (Community Savings and Credit Association) is an alternative livelihood initiative of the Parents for Education and Environmental Advocate of Poblacion (PEEAP) in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, established in 2018. Through group savings and loan schemes, members are provided opportunities to fund livelihood projects and improve household income. In December 2022, PEEAP members participated in the annual CoMSCA share-out. On December 20, the Fast Cash Group shared a total of Php 79,865.00, with each member receiving an 11% interest on their shares. Meanwhile, the Tablak Group conducted their share-out on December 22, distributing Php 56,115.00, with members receiving 11.19% ROI. These share-outs not only provide financial returns to participants but also promote financial literacy, community empowerment, and sustainable livelihood opportunities, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development.

The JBLFMU CES Office, in partnership with its long-time organized Peoples Organization (PO), the Parents for Education and Environmental Advocate of Poblacion (PEEAP) in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, conducted a series of community-centered activities. These included a team-building activity, a forum on health-related issues, a Christmas party, and an immersion and clean-up drive at the JBLFMU Ecological Park. Forty PO members actively participated, supported by JBLFMU CES staff, Molo-CES personnel, and student volunteers. The activities not only strengthened team cohesion and health awareness but also reinforced community engagement, environmental stewardship, and collaboration between JBLFMU and its partner communities. These initiatives are planned to be annual events, highlighting the ongoing commitment of JBLFMU and PEEAP to fostering resilient, healthy, and sustainable communities, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals 3, 11, and 17.

The Community Managed Savings and Credit Association (CoMSCA) is a community-driven system that creates a local pool of capital, providing members access to funds for household needs, cash-flow management, and short-term income-generating activities. Its goal is to support families in sending children to school, improving livelihoods, and ensuring the sustainability of community projects. On February 21, 2023, the 4th cycle of CoMSCA was officially launched, with 23 active community members participating. An initial contribution of Php 4,780.00 was collected from members as savings, which will also serve as a fund for loans. This initiative empowers community members to enhance financial resilience, strengthen household income, and promote inclusive economic growth, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 1, 4, and 8.

From March 20–22, 2023, JBLFMU CES participated in the Planning Workshop of the Guimaras Alliance of Protected Areas and Sanctuaries (GAPAS) held at Marceily Point, Buenavista, Guimaras. The workshop aimed to finalize the management plan and secure approval of the supporting ordinance and executive order by the Provincial Governor of Guimaras, formalizing GAPAS as a recognized Marine Protected Areas (MPA) alliance in the province. JBLFMU CES served as a member of the Technical Working Group, providing technical input and guidance. On the final day, the Provincial Governor approved and signed the ordinance and executive order, marking a significant milestone in strengthening public-private partnerships for marine conservation. This achievement reinforces collaborative governance, sustainable coastal management, and community engagement, contributing to the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals 14, 17, and 11.

From April 17–21, 2023, JBLFMU CES, in partnership with ERDA Foundation and JBLFMU system employees, conducted a series of educational seminar workshops in nine partner communities across Guimaras. Titled “Environmental Awareness: Empowering Youth and Children to Create Climate-Resilient Communities”, the workshops engaged 25 youth and children per barangay in hands-on learning on climate change, climate resilience, and zero-waste lifestyles. The activities aimed to educate participants on the importance of environmental protection, increase youth participation in sustainability programs, and foster awareness of their role in conserving natural resources. Beyond knowledge, the workshops promoted leadership, teamwork, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship, empowering young generations to take active roles in building climate-resilient and sustainable communities. Through these initiatives, JBLFMU CES contributes to climate action, responsible consumption, and quality education, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals for current and future generations.

On May 16 to 19 2016, Woodland Bike Park in Sibunag and the JBLFMU Eco Park became the venues for the first ever JBLFMU Eco Adventure Summer Camp: A Climate Change Initiative.

The Summer Camp is the brainchild of the Community and Extension Services, spearheaded by CES officer, Mary Mar Esmaña with the cooperation of the Research Department under Dr. Melchor Magramo.

50 student leaders from different high schools in Guimaras participated in the three and a half day camp together with selected student leaders from the institution’s Molo, Arevalo and Bacolod campuses.

 The three and a half day camp was jampacked with eco-themed activities ranging from lectures on arts and crafts, leadership, climate change awareness and recycling to outdoor activities like swimming, sea grass inspection and mangrove identification, talent night and more. The highlight of the camp’s activities was the Amazing Race that stretched over the entire expanse of the Eco Park with campers racing from one station to the other that brought them to the different beautiful locations inside the park.

 The campers’ experience was further enriched by the presence of American Peace Corps volunteer facilitators together with Camp Director Riza Ornos. CES Canadian interns Emily Goldney and Tanner Field functioned as head organizers with Emily taking charge of conceptualizing the system and flow of activities for the camp.

 The Eco-Adventure Summer Camp is slated to be a yearly activity of the CES department starting next year.

The Johb B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) shall once again be hosting its Eco-Adventure Camp this summer from May 23, to 26, 2017 at the JBLFMU Eco Park in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras.  

The Eco-Adventure Camp which premiered successfully last year, is a brainchild of the JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) Office in connection with the university’s policy to maintain the highest standards for Heath, Safety, and Environmental protection.

This year, the summer camp aims to create awareness for environmental protection and conservation by exposing them to lectures and activities that expose them to workings of ecological sustainability in the hopes that campers will be mobilized to come up with their own environmental management initiatives. Specifically, it will expose the campers to marine protection as the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary is but a part of the Eco-park.

The camp is open to selected student leaders from different high schools of Iloilo City, Bacolod, and Guimaras Provinces. This year 30 will come from the secondary schools in Guimaras, 15 from Iloilo City while 5 from Bacolod City. The campers are expected to actively engage in a jam-packed set of environmental activities that they can replicate in their communities and practice in their daily lives. 

The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) successfully conducted its Second Eco-Adventure Camp on May 23–26, 2017, themed “Youth for Environmental Protection and Preservation.” The four-day camp brought together youth leaders to deepen environmental awareness, strengthen stewardship values, and translate learning into concrete community action.

A key highlight of the camp was the strong partnership with Atria Park Iloilo, which provided an urban platform for experiential learning and public engagement. Following the camp, participants showcased their creativity and advocacy through trash-to-art installations displayed at Atria Park District, promoting waste reduction and environmental responsibility. In addition, urban gardening initiatives were established in the same area, demonstrating sustainable food practices within an urban setting.

As a major output, campers developed community-based project proposals, which they committed to implement in their respective communities. These initiatives showcased camp’s success in empowering youth as proactive environmental advocates and partners in sustainable development.