Zamboanga City hosted an international gathering of researchers during the conference “Sustaining Traditions, Securing Futures: Community Knowledge in Food Security, Disaster Response, Climate Change Adaptation, and Women Empowerment,” on January 21–23, 2026, at Theater, Garden Orchid Hotel.

The three-day event brought together researchers and experts from different countries, creating a dynamic platform for cross-cultural knowledge exchange and collaborative dialogue.

The conference was made possible through the collaboration of international and national institutions, including the UCLA Center for Southeast Asian Studies (UCLA CSEAS), PEMSEA, the Henry Luce Foundation, and the UCLA Southeast Asian Archaeology Lab, alongside key Philippine partners such as the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), City Government of Zamboanga, Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University, Taluksangay Barangay Council, Basilan State College, Sulu State College, Agusan Del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology, Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, and Tawi-Tawi Regional Agricultural College.

Their collective presence underscored the importance of multi-sectoral partnerships in advancing research that is grounded in local realities yet responsive to global concerns.

As an academic institution committed to research, innovation, and community engagement, Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) reaffirmed its support for initiatives that bridge science, culture, and policy.

Dr. Roy L. Valesco, College President, emphasized this commitment in his message, stating, “In harmony, with sustainable development, we commit to turning every effort for humanity. Most importantly, in improving the quality of life for people. Our research teams have been creating massive waves of substantial effort in which propagation, aquaculture, tangible enrichment, and increased engagement in partnerships. And as the college president, I aspire to position our institution at the foreground of fisheries, research, and regional development.”