The Center for Politics and International Affairs (CPIA), together with the Ateneo de Davao University’s Environmental Science (EnviSci) Department, welcomed CG ADM Ronnie Gil L. Gavan of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) during the courtesy meeting on campus on Friday, February 23, 2024. The EnviSci students, along with their professor, Dr John Ong, presented their ongoing research on the topic of “The Distribution and Transport of Marine Litter in the Davao Gulf, Philippines.” CG ADM Gavan gave his overwhelming support and approval for this research endeavor as it aligns with the PCG’s marine environmental protection initiative.
Later that day, the University Research Council (URC) together with the CPIA, in partnership with the US Embassy in Manila held a courtesy call for the Philippine Coast Guard and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). CG ADM Ronnie Gil L. Gavan of the PCG and Director Gregory Poling of the CSIS Asia Maritime Transparency Institute, reaffirmed the importance of maritime governance, safety, and security through a strategic partnership in the region. CG ADM Gavan further added that a democratization of knowledge in various regions in the country, particularly in Mindanao, is realized through the works of academic institutions and think tanks.
The event culminated in a round table discussion on Mindanao maritime security which included distinguished representatives from the Mindanao Development Authority, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the SOCKSARGEN Federation of Fishing and Allied Industries, Inc., the Maritime Industry Authority, the Philippine Ports Authority – Davao Port, the City Government of Mati, and the Ateneo de Davao Economics Department.
