TACLOBAN CITY — As Northern Samar strengthens its aspiration to become the first UNESCO Global Geopark site in Eastern Visayas, the University of the Philippines (UP) and the provincial government of Northern Samar (PGNS) have formalized a strategic partnership to support geological conservation and sustainable development efforts in the province.
The collaboration was sealed through a memorandum of understanding signed by Northern Samar Representative Edwin Ongchuan(2nd district) and Governor Harris Christopher Ongchuan on behalf of the province, and UP officials led by Chancellor Edgardo Carlo Vistan II.
The agreement institutionalizes cooperation on research, education, heritage preservation, and community-centered development — key pillars required for a UNESCO Global Geopark designation.
Chancellor Vistan emphasized UP’s commitment to providing its scientific and academic expertise, especially through the UP National Institute of Geological Sciences (NIGS), which has been working closely with the province since last year.
“This collaboration aligns with UP’s mission to advance research and public service, especially in areas that can drive community development and environmental stewardship,” he said.
Northern Samar hosts geological formations considered nationally and internationally significant — a competitive advantage the province is working to maximize not only for heritage conservation but also for scientific research, geotourism, and livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Rep. Ongchuan, who first laid the groundwork for the geopark bid during his term as governor, said the partnership solidifies their long-term vision.
“This partnership with the University of the Philippines allows us to harness academic expertise in geology and environmental science which will not only focus on research and education but also tourism and, most importantly, community development,” he said.
Governor Ongchuan expressed gratitude to UP for helping ensure that the province’s geopark efforts are anchored on science-based planning and capacity building. He underscored the importance of protecting natural heritage while ensuring that benefits reach local communities.
Under the MoU, UP and PGNS will collaborate on joint research and development activities; capacity-building programs; scientific knowledge dissemination; and conservation and community-engagement initiatives
The agreement does not impose financial obligations on either party but encourages resource sharing and cooperation to advance their aligned missions.
The partnership marks a milestone not only for Northern Samar’s UNESCO Global Geopark bid but also for future collaborations between academic institutions and local governments — demonstrating how science-based governance can drive cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
