Iriga: Marine Mammal stranding response training conducted for LGUs in Catanduanes

    By
    RPN News
    -
    0
    9

    𝗠𝗔π—₯π—œπ—‘π—˜ π— π—”π— π— π—”π—Ÿ 𝗦𝗧π—₯π—”π—‘π——π—œπ—‘π—š π—₯π—˜π—¦π—£π—’π—‘π—¦π—˜ 𝗧π—₯π—”π—œπ—‘π—œπ—‘π—š π—–π—’π—‘π——π—¨π—–π—§π—˜π—— 𝗙𝗒π—₯ π—Ÿπ—šπ—¨π—¦ π—œπ—‘ π—–π—”π—§π—”π—‘π——π—¨π—”π—‘π—˜π—¦
    A three-day Marine Mammal Stranding Response Training was conducted for Local Government Units (LGUs) in Catanduanes on January 28-30, 2025. The activity was organized by the Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPAG), in collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office 5 (BFAR 5) through its Fisheries Resource Management Section (FRMS).

    Christian RiΓ±on, the Marine Mammal Stranding Network focal person for Bicol, together with FRMS technical staff, Maria NiΓ±a Buitizon and Maria Eloisa Bien served as Resource Speakers. Participants included representatives from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMO) and Municipal Agriculture Offices (MAO) of Virac, Baras, San Miguel, Gigmoto, Panganiban, Pandan, Caramoran, Bagamanoc, Bato, San Andres, and Viga, as well as the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

    The program aimed to equip responders with knowledge on marine mammal biology, behavior, and species identification. It also covered the causes of strandings, response protocols, humane handling techniques, and data collection for conservation research. Legal considerations and multi-agency coordination strategies were also discussed.

    Participants underwent hands-on field training on proper approach techniques to minimize stress on stranded animals, health assessments, first aid procedures, handling and transport protocols, and refloating and release strategies.

    The training is expected to enhance the efficiency of marine mammal stranding response efforts, improving survival rates while ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards. It also contributes to scientific research on marine mammal health and behavior, supporting broader conservation initiatives. Organizers emphasized the importance of continued training and resource investment to strengthen marine mammal protection efforts in the region.

    Source: BFAR Bicol

    Leave a Reply