On February 16, 2025, the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Community Extension Services (JBLFMU CES) conducted a COMSCA and Community Meeting aimed at strengthening financial literacy, savings discipline, and community development. The activity provided a platform for members to review savings and loan performance, assess current challenges, and discuss practical strategies to improve financial management. Participants also collaboratively planned initiatives focused on economic empowerment and long-term sustainability. Through open dialogue and shared learning, the program reinforced the values of self-reliance, responsible lending, and mutual support. This initiative reflects JBLFMU CES’s continuing commitment to building financially resilient communities by equipping members with knowledge, confidence, and collective responsibility toward inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

On February 21, 2025, the PNVMPC Management Board convened to deliberate on key issues affecting the cooperative and its members. The meeting served as a vital platform to assess current concerns, align strategies, and reinforce good governance practices within the organization. Guided by a shared commitment to growth and collective well-being, the board discussed measures aimed at improving services, strengthening member support, and ensuring transparent and responsible management. Through collaborative decision-making, the PNVMPC Management Board reaffirmed its dedication to delivering positive outcomes, upholding members’ interests, and sustaining a cooperative that provides meaningful benefit and long-term support for all its members.

It is recalled that the PNVMPC was formed following the establishment of the IBMS.

On February 24–25, 2025, members of the IBMS Technical Working Group convened for the fourth phase of their meeting and workshop, marking another milestone in collaborative environmental governance. The two-day session focused on a comprehensive review and strategic updating of the IBMS Management Plan to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. Participants examined current priorities, identified emerging issues and challenges, and explored innovative approaches to strengthen sustainable management practices. Through focused discussions and collective planning, the workshop reinforced shared accountability and adaptive strategies for long-term ecosystem protection. This phase underscored the group’s commitment to responsive planning, science-based decision-making, and continuous improvement in managing IBMS for a more resilient and sustainable future.

On February 27, 2025, COMSCA members of Poblacion, Nueva Valencia, together with JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) and Social Work student interns from Iloilo Doctors College (IDC), conducted a session on financial literacy and savings practices. The activity aimed to promote responsible money management, strengthen savings discipline, and enhance long-term financial stability among community members.

On the same day, JBLFMU CES personnel formally delivered an invitation letter to the Department of Education (DepEd) Guimaras for the upcoming Eco-Adventure Camp. In support of marine conservation efforts, the University also turned over its contribution to the Fish Wardens of the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary in the Municipality of Nueva Valencia. These initiatives highlight JBLFMU CES’s integrated approach to community empowerment, education, and environmental stewardship.

Another community meeting was held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, focusing on financial literacy and savings programs to further empower local communities. The sessions were conducted in Sitio Tabunan and Sitio Laktawan, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, providing residents with practical knowledge on responsible money management and the importance of consistent savings. Through interactive discussions and shared experiences, participants gained a clearer understanding of budgeting, financial planning, and collective economic responsibility. The activity aimed to strengthen financial awareness at the grassroots level, encourage sustainable financial practices, and support community members in building greater financial stability and resilience.

On March 13, 2025, a group of parents convened for their regular CoMSCA meeting as part of the continuing livelihood initiatives of the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Community Extension Services (JBLFMU CES). The meeting reinforced the core objectives of CoMSCA, which include promoting financial literacy, instilling the importance of consistent savings, and providing accessible loans that serve as capital for members’ livelihood activities. Through shared discussions and collective planning, participants strengthened their understanding of responsible financial management and mutual support. This initiative continues to empower families by enhancing economic self-reliance, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and fostering a financially resilient community.

The 5th Batch of the Strengthening Family Relationships Seminar was successfully conducted in the Province of Guimaras, gathering 140 parent participants from seven partner barangays at the New Function Hall of Nueva Valencia. Organized by the JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) with full funding support from the ERDA Foundation, the seminar aimed to reinforce family bonds and equip parents with vital knowledge on legal and relational aspects of family life.

The activity was made possible through the strong support of the Municipal Local Government Unit of Nueva Valencia, which provided the venue and PA system. Atty. Shereal Ferrer-Vicho served as resource person on Family Laws, while Kiezel Escander and Krishyl Bangero led sessions on Parent-Child Relationships. Social Work student interns from IDC and CSCJ facilitated interactive activities. Simultaneously, a Community Needs Assessment was conducted to inform more responsive and sustainable family-centered programs.

April 13, 2025 marked a significant milestone for JBLCF Puerto del Mar (PDM) and Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary with the ceremonial turnover of the Mangrove Footbridge, a project made possible through the generous funding of Stolt Nielsen in partnership with JCI Regatta. The event was graced by C/M Joey Infante, Stolt CI Expert and President of JCI Regatta, whose leadership was instrumental in the project’s realization.

Capt. Alfred Espinosa, Administrator of JBLCF PDM, formally received the Deed of Donation and led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the official handover. A Memorandum of Agreement on the footbridge’s use and management was also signed to ensure sustainability. The program, facilitated by JBLFMU CES, concluded with an environmental orientation and mangrove bagging activity, reflecting strong multi-sectoral commitment to environmental protection and coastal resource management.

On May 27–28, 2025, the JBLFMU Research Team, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Nueva Valencia, conducted a seagrass assessment at the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS) using the standardized Seagrass Monitoring Method of SeagrassNet—a global network dedicated to seagrass conservation.

This initiative aimed to reestablish JBLFMU’s partnership with SeagrassNet, a key collaborator in previous seagrass studies, and to highlight the ecological significance of IBMS. By documenting seagrass health and coverage, the project positions the sanctuary on the global environmental map, emphasizing its critical role in marine ecosystem protection, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable coastal resource management. The activity reinforces JBLFMU’s commitment to science-based environmental stewardship and collaborative marine conservation.

On May 28, 2025, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS) convened to review and approve the updated IBMS Management Plan for Calendar Years 2025–2030. Representing John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) were Mary Mar E. Jaleco, RSW, D.M., and Ms. Glaiza Tabulinar.

After a thorough discussion of the proposed updates, Hon. Magon moved to approve the plan, seconded by Hon. Mojedo. With no objections, the motion was carried, and the updated management plan was officially approved. It will now be forwarded to the Sangguniang Bayan Office for resolution and formal adoption, marking a key step in sustainable marine management and long-term protection of IBMS’s valuable ecosystems.

On June 8, 2025, the JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) Office held a Community Meeting and Strategic Planning session at Tabunan Chapel, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. The gathering brought together 47 community residents and local leaders to share insights, raise concerns, and actively participate in shaping future programs aligned with JBLFMU’s strategic goals.

This collaborative effort directly supports initiatives in the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS) by ensuring community engagement in environmental protection, sustainable resource management, and local development. By anchoring projects in shared responsibility and inclusive growth, JBLFMU CES reinforces its commitment to empowering communities while advancing conservation and sustainable practices that benefit both people and the marine ecosystem.

On June 14, 2025, JBLFMU, in partnership with JCI Regatta and Stolt Nielsen, successfully carried out another phase of the coral gardening project, marking significant progress in marine ecosystem restoration. The initiative brought together multiple stakeholders, including GENRO, the Municipal LGU of Nueva Valencia, PCG, PCGA, Stolt Cadets, and JCI Regatta, demonstrating strong multi-sectoral collaboration.

Through hands-on activities and technical support, participants contributed to the rehabilitation and expansion of coral habitats within the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS). This project not only enhances biodiversity and strengthens reef resilience but also reinforces community engagement and collective responsibility in sustainable coastal and marine conservation.

On June 17, 2025, JBLFMU, as a member of the Natural and Human-Induced Hazard Prevention and Management Sub-Committee, actively participated in the bi-annual meeting at the Guimaras Environment and Natural Resources Office. During the session, JBLFMU presented its six-month accomplishments aligned with the committee’s objectives.

Key highlights included continued support for law enforcement at the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS), the successful conduct of the 7th Eco-Adventure Camp themed “ECO-Revolution: Youth for Climate Action and Solutions,” and sessions on First Aid and Disaster Risk Preparedness. The University also emphasized consistent application of Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Control (HIRAC) in community activities, alongside capacity-building initiatives such as team building, catch-up programs, and family strengthening sessions. The accomplishments were presented by CES Coordinator Mary Mar E. Jaleco, RSW, D.M., underscoring JBLFMU’s commitment to community resilience and sustainable environmental stewardship.

On June 18, 2025, JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) participated in a Sub-Committee Meeting under the Guimaras Environment and Natural Resources Office, focusing on Habitat Protection, Restoration, and Management. During the session, JBLFMU CES presented its six-month accomplishments, demonstrating the University’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability in the province.

Key highlights included the finalization of the five-year Management Plan for the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS), the successful staging of the 7th JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp, and a series of clean-up drives, mangrove planting, and bagging activities. The presentation also showcased Project EYE-Tapon, a campers-led solid waste management initiative, and the expansion of the coral gardening project, further strengthening JBLFMU’s active role in marine ecosystem conservation and community-based environmental stewardship.

On June 21, 2025, the JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) Office successfully conducted the Students Immersion and Educational Tour at Puerto Del Mar, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. The whole-day activity featured an orientation and educational tour of Puerto Del Mar, mangrove bagging and planting, and a mangrove and coastal clean-up drive. Student volunteers from the College of Maritime Education, Maritime High School, and the College of Business and Management actively participated in all activities.

The initiative aimed to expose students to environmental conservation and sustainable practices while deepening their connection with nature. By fostering environmentally responsible behavior and social responsibility, the CES Office sought to inspire personal growth and nurture a long-term commitment among students toward environmental stewardship and active community engagement.

On July 28, 2025 and August 5, 2025, the second batch of the JBLFMU Educational Assistance Program was successfully conducted at the six Barangays in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. The activity was attended by Barangay Officials from both communities and IBMS Protected Area Superintendent Mr. Aljun Margallo, along with the JBLFMU CES Coordinator and volunteers who facilitated the distribution.

Students identified as beneficiaries received school supplies, uniform allowances, and other educational support aimed at enhancing their learning experience and reducing barriers to education. This initiative reflects JBLFMU CES’s ongoing commitment to supporting academic growth, promoting equitable access to education, and empowering students to achieve their full potential within their communities.

On August 1, 2025, the JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) Coordinator conducted an orientation for JBLCF Bacolod alumni and employees at JBLCF Puerto del Mar, with a focus on the university’s initiatives in the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS). The session highlighted CES programs in community development, environmental protection, education, livelihood, health, safety, and values formation, showcasing best practices in marine conservation.

Special emphasis was given to IBMS, recognized as one of the Top 10 Outstanding Locally Declared Marine Protected Areas in the Philippines (2019) and its First Place award in the PACUCOA Search for Best CES Programs (2020). The immersion aimed to inspire participants to actively support and sustain IBMS conservation efforts, reinforcing JBLFMU’s mission of fostering environmental stewardship and community engagement.

On August 25, 2025, Stolt Nielsen and JCI Regatta successfully turned over the Mangrove Nursery to JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) for ongoing operation and management. Funded by Stolt Nielsen and JCI Regatta, the nursery aims to provide mangrove seedlings for reforestation projects within the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS) and other Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

The turnover was made possible through the efforts of JBLF Inc. Administrator Capt. Alfred Espinosa and Laboratory Head Mr. Juanit Tubid. CES Officers and committee members from JBLFMU-Molo and Arevalo attended the ceremony, underscoring the spirit of collaboration and shared commitment to environmental sustainability. This initiative strengthens JBLFMU CES’s continued support for habitat restoration and marine ecosystem conservation at IBMS.

On September 11, 2025, JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) donated gardening tools and seeds to the communal garden of PEEAP, a People’s Organization organized by CES. The initiative was further strengthened through the support of the LGU of Nueva Valencia, which contributed additional seeds for planting.

This collaborative effort promotes sustainable agriculture, food security, and community engagement, while fostering unity and shared responsibility among members. By empowering PEEAP with the tools and resources to cultivate their garden, JBLFMU CES continues to plant hope and nurture sustainable practices, reinforcing its commitment to community development and environmental stewardship.

In preparation for the International Coastal Clean-up Drive on September 20, 2025, the JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES), in collaboration with DENR-PENRO Guimaras, conducted an Orientation on Trash Audit on September 21, 2025. The session emphasized the role of Trash Audits as a systematic tool to record and analyze the types of waste collected, enhancing the effectiveness of coastal clean-up efforts.

Facilitated by Ms. Pauline Capague and Ms. Sharie Banhaw, both Forest Technician II of DENR-PENRO Guimaras, the orientation was attended by 23 JBLFMU personnel. The activity equipped participants with the knowledge and skills to lead clean-up initiatives, reinforcing JBLFMU CES’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable coastal management.