Officials from the provincial government of Northern Samar and the University of the Philippines discuss geological heritage conservation in the province during a meeting at the UP National Institute of Geological Sciences in Quezon City on Nov. 20, 2025. UP is committed to helping Northern Samar fully utilize its natural and cultural assets. (Photo courtesy of Northern Samar Rep. Edwin Ongchuan)
TACLOBAN CITY – The provincial government of Northern Samar and the University of the Philippines (UP) have forged a partnership to advance geological heritage conservation, research collaboration, and sustainable development initiatives in the province.
The meeting and signing of the memorandum of agreement was held at the UP National Institute of Geological Sciences in Quezon City on Thursday, with Northern Samar 2nd District Rep. Edwin Ongchuan and Governor Harris Christopher Ongchuan representing the province, and UP officials led by Chancellor Edgardo Carlo Vistan II.
The agreement reinforces a shared commitment to supporting Northern Samar’s bid for UNESCO Global Geopark status.
In a news release Friday, Vistan emphasized UP’s readiness to contribute its academic expertise — particularly through the UP National Institute of Geological Sciences (NIGS) — in helping the province fully utilize its natural and cultural assets.
“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 is home to geological formations of national and international significance, a strategic advantage as it works to position itself as Eastern Visayas’ center for geological, natural, and cultural heritage.
The agreement provides a framework for both parties to collaborate on research, education, community engagement, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that promote conservation and sustainable local development.
Rep. Ongchuan, who was the governor when efforts toward securing UNESCO Global Geopark status began, stressed the importance of the partnership in strengthening ongoing initiatives.
“This partnership with the University of the Philippines allows us to harness academic expertise in geology and environmental science, which will not only advance research, education, and tourism but, most importantly, support community development,” he said.
Governor Ongchuan thanked UP for its guidance and support in refining the province’s Geopark bid.
He underscored the importance of “evidence-based planning and capacity-building” in achieving long-term environmental and cultural preservation goals.
Under the partnership, UP and PGNS commit to working together on joint research and development, capacity-building activities, and the sharing of scientific knowledge.
While the agreement does not impose financial obligations on either party, it encourages resource sharing and cooperative initiatives that advance their institutional missions.
The partnership formalizes collaborative work that began last year between UP Diliman faculty, NIGS experts, and Northern Samar officials.
It is expected to strengthen the province’s conservation agenda and inspire future generations to value and protect its rich geological heritage.
Experts have identified over a dozen other geological sites in Northern Samar province after the recent recognition of Biri Rocks as the Philippines’ newest National Geological Monument. (PNA)