The Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) team took part in the Final Presentation and Graduation Ceremony of the DIP Lab Mentoring Program on Policy Analysis and Policy Research Proposal Development held on January 8-9, 2026. The program focused on policy initiatives in SOCSKSARGEN and BARMM.
The SKSU team was led by Project Leader Prof. Carilyn Salanio-Martin, together with Prof. Joemarie A. Pono, Prof. Yusrah Molao, Prof. Rodel Catalan, and Prof. John Michael Rentuaya. From September 2025 to January 2026, the team worked on drafting the policy research proposal and took part in mentoring sessions. With guidance from Prof. Regelio Andrada II of the University of the Philippines Los Banos, the team presented a policy proposal titled “KALEPA-KHALIFA Framework: A Policy Support of the Establishment of the KAlamansig-LEbak-PAlimbang Protected Area”. The team also presented their work to University President Dr. Samson L. Molao, who expressed his full support and offered valuable insights and institutional perspectives. His guidance helped further refine and strengthen the paper, ensuring its alignment with the university’s research priorities and policy advocacy goals.
The proposed policy is important as it offers a science based and participatory approach to protecting the environment, managing natural resources, and supporting inclusive decision making. Also, it benefits not only the university but also the communities it serves, with lasting impact for the region. It also strengthens partnerships among academic institutions, government agencies, and local stakeholders. It shows how universities can help guide policies that protect biodiversity while also supporting the needs of local communities.
This milestone reflects SKSU’s commitment to research, policy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), through research and initiatives that strengthen climate resilience and mitigation, promotes the conservation and sustainable management of marine and coastal ecosystems and fosters protection, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity.
– By: Joemarie Pono
