From Marine Biological Station to Center for Research and Awareness of Diverse Living Environments: Celebrating the Centennial Year of University of the Philippines’ Presence and Scientific Achievements in Puerto Galera

The significance of a marine biological station (MBS) was recognized worldwide in the mid-19th century. In the Philippines, the first MBS was established by the University of the Philippines (UP) in 1923 at Puerto Galera and led to significant scientific contributions. This foundational station began when UP conducted marine biological surveys at Puerto Galera together with the Bureau of Science in 1912. In stark contrast with this long-standing history, only two non-SCIE-indexed review papers are published with coverage until 1949. This study aims to provide updates on UP’s scientific contribution over a century, integrate our findings with the existing information, as well as present a newly constructed Center for Research and Awareness of Diverse Living Environments (UP CRADLE), the university research and extension facility at Puerto Galera. Early scientific studies involved the collection and identification (taxonomy and systematics) of marine fauna and flora, most of which were new to science and few were endemic species. Over time, research works progressed into biological and ecological studies, including hydrodynamics, chemical oceanography, fisheries, coastal resource management, and human impacts on the marine environment brought about by booming tourism. Given these scientific achievements, it becomes evident that the symbiotic partnership between UP and Puerto Galera played a vital role in fostering the progression and growth of marine science in the country. The creation of UP CRADLE will help to ensure the continuation and expansion of the scientific groundwork established by UPMBS. This is the torch to be carried on by the Center, from a mere marine station to a biodiversity field station, and enlarges its scope covering the terrestrial environment and human dimensions. In effect, we are ensuring a holistic ridge-to-reef-to-sociocultural perspective and integrating the science-based management of a UNESCO Man-and-Biosphere reserve, which serves as a “living laboratory.”