An appreciation by children for the rich biodiversity of the island of Siargao became the main goal of a project of Thomasian researchers, who received funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP).
A team led by Biological Sciences Professor Cecilia I. Banag-Moran, Dr. rer. nat. developed digital and print learning materials for children, whose schools now adopt the tools. In an announcement by the NRCP, the funding agency announced that the Department of Education – Schools Division of Siargao approved the use of the materials to 鈥渟trengthen literacy and promote environmental education for young learners.鈥�
The materials include a printed workbook, the Siargao Flora & Fauna Puzzle mobile game, and twenty-one (21) animated videos focusing on what comprise Siargao鈥檚 famed biodiversity. The materials have a focus on mangrove research areas.
Banag-Moran鈥檚 team is composed of the following academic staff: Inst. Jorge Anton D. Ordas, MSc, Inst. Genea Nichole Cortez (content writer for the workbook), MSc, Asst. Prof. Mae Lowe L. Diesmos, MSc, Academician Mudjekeewis Santos, PhD (Graduate School), and Academician Arvin Diesmos, PhD.
The project was based on a 2019-2020 study entitled 鈥淎ssessment, Inventory, and Biological Field Survey of Flora and Fauna of the Mangrove Forests in Del Carmen, Siargao Island.鈥� The team worked closely with Del Carmen Mayor Hon. Alfredo Coro, Jr. and his team for the endeavor.
