SLSU Bontoc and DOST-PSTO Southern Leyte Join Forces for Sea Cucumber Ranching initiative

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) – Bontoc Campus has partnered with the Department of Science and Technology-Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST-PSTO), Southern Leyte to launch an innovative project aimed at boosting sustainable aquaculture and providing new livelihood opportunities for local fishing communities.

The initiative, titled “Enhancing Community-Based Sea Cucumber Ranching for Sustainable Development,” was officially formalized on January 14, 2025, during the SPEED SL: 2025 PSTO Southern Leyte Stakeholders Forum at Coastal Gatherings, Brgy. Isagani, Maasin City, Southern Leyte.

The partnership was represented by SLSU-Bontoc Campus Director Gladys L. Pascual and key officials from DOST. This collaborative effort seeks to explore sea cucumber ranching as a sustainable and profitable fishing activity, ensuring both marine conservation and economic resilience for local fisherfolk.

The project is part of SPEED SL, which stands for STI (Science, Technology, and Innovation) Programs to Enhance Economic Development of Southern Leyte. This program takes a comprehensive approach to development, focusing on industry advancement, disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), economic growth, sociopolitical stability, and human resource development (HRD).

Campus Director Gladys L. Pascual said, “Sea cucumber fetch high market value due to its combined pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical and nutraceutical benefits. Its unregulated extraction may result in depletion of wild stock, hence the materialization of this project is anticipated to contribute towards replenishment of natural population”.

During the event, Mr. Ramil Uy, Provincial S&T Director of PSTO Southern Leyte, officially turned over the seed grant to help fund the project’s implementation. The ceremony was also attended by Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña, Regional Director of DOST-8, Vice Governor Hon. Rosa Emilia “Milai” Gaviola Mercado, SLSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (RIES) Francis Ann Sy, and Maasin City Councilor Mikhael Leonardo “Mikee” Mercado.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable fisheries, demonstrating the power of scientific research, government support, and community collaboration in driving economic growth and environmental stewardship.

This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 14 Life Below Water, SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals; and SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth.