TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) -- Gearing towards advancing ocean science and resource management in Region 2, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in partnership with the Biodiversity Management Bureau, is set to establish a marine research station in Sta. Ana, Cagayan.

DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, in her recent visit to the province, said the initiative aims to bolster research efforts and development strategies for coastal and marine ecosystems in the country.

“Santa Ana, Cagayan will be the northernmost site to serve as sentinel covering the Northern Philippine Sea marine biogeographic region,” said Loyzaga.

Santa Ana is a coastal town located at the northeastern tip of Cagayan province and a host for the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and Freeport.

Loyzaga also said the research station will be strategically established near the Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape.

“Corals found in the northern part of the country are resilient to climate change, based on extensive scientific research conducted by the University of the Philippines - Marine Science Institute (UPMSI),” added Loyzaga.

In collaboration with UPMSI, DENR aims to spearhead comprehensive studies in partnership with local communities, with a focus on environmental education and conservation efforts. 

The secretary also urged the local government to help safeguard the region's rich coastal and marine biodiversity. 

On the other hand, Gwendolyn Bambalan, regional executive director of DENR Region 2, expressed her gratitude for choosing the region to be the hub for marine studies. 

She also said parts of the project are the establishment of step ladders, an information center, pasalubong stalls, and solar-powered generation systems installation within Palaui Island, which will contribute to the tourism industry of the town. (MFJ/PIA Region 2)