The Aklan State University’s (ASU) "People-led and Multi-Sector Supported Isla Kapispisan Mangrove Reforestation, Aquasilviculture and Ecotourism Project" won 1st place in the regional category (Region VI) and 4th place in the recently concluded National Search for 2010 Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Outstanding Higher Education Institutions (HEI) Extension Program. As regional winner, the project received a trophy and P300,000 cash.
The awarding ceremony was attended by ASU President Dr. Danilo E. Abayon, Dr. Benny A. Palma, Dr. Anna Mae C. Relingo, Dr. Elenita B. Andrade, Prof. Elaine P. Dela Cruz, and Prof. Rinse Remetio held on March 30, 2011 at CHED Auditorium, Diliman, Quezon City.
The award is offered to mobilize knowledge and technology, to enhance productivity, generate employment, and reduce poverty. Higher education institutions are actively conducting research and extension programs/projects, particularly transfer and/or application of technology/knowledge that contributes to the attainment of the country’s development goals. Recognizing the role that extension contributes to the fulfillment of these goals, the CHED launched the Outstanding HEI Extension Program Award which aims to recognize and reward both the implementor(s) and the higher education institutions for their outstanding Extension programs; encourage Extension work relevant and responsive to the needs of the community and society; and promote appreciation of the importance of the Extension function of HEIs.
The Isla Kapispisan project is initiated by the ASU-College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (ASU-CFMS) in partnership with the Local Government Unit of New Washington, Aklan and other cooperating agencies in 1997. The experiences gained in the project provided valuable lessons on excellence in governance of extension services delivery of ASU.
The project converted an abandoned 32-hectare fishpond into a people-led and multi-sector-supported mangrove reforestation, aquasilviculture and ecotourism site. It serves as a convergence demo-learning area for the fishery sectors to recreate a wholesome coastal resource environment. The development of Isla Kapispisan uses various approaches and strategies including—crafting a shared vision, charting the intervention, mobilizing people and enhancing participation, partnership and collaboration, massive mangrove planting, organizing fisherfolks, training for responsible fishing, out-sourcing, research and technology information diffusion and modeling, environment education and advocacy through eco-tourism and pro-ductivity enhancement.
In 2009, the project won for ASU First Place in the Best Public Sector Projects Award for State Universities & Colleges Category in the Regional Development Council VI and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) VI.
On November 23, 2010, the Sangguniang Bayan of New Washington, Aklan passed Municipal Ordinance No. 2010-09 known as Isla Kapispisan Mangrove Park and Fishery Sanctuary Development Code. This ensures the sustainable and equitable development of Isla Kapispisan in conformity with existing national environmental laws.
The ordinance calls for promotion of Isla Kapispisan Mangrove Park and Fishery Sanctuary and the Lagatik river (New Washington) as eco-tourism area. /MP
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