The Zamboanga City Tourism Office formally opens the 25-hectare Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology Bird Sanctuary for the activity “ Dia de Aves” on February 23, 2026 as one of the major highlights of the Dia de Zamboanga Festival.

College President Dr. Roy Valesco warmly welcomed student participants and members of the academic community from Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University (ZPPSU), Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), and Pilar College of Zamboanga, along with students from the ZSCMST. In his message, he emphasized the vital role of the youth in environmental advocacy and in advancing green programs to preserve nature—an invaluable blessing that must be protected for future generations.

Taking advantage of the fair weather, bird enthusiasts from Cebu and Bohol eagerly raised their binoculars to observe the sanctuary’s majestic bird species. A ribbon-cutting ceremony followed, led by Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian, ZSCMST Director for Administrative Services Mr. Roderick Trio, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) representative Luis Lozano.

Earlier in the day, the local government unit hosted a bird symposium at the ZSCMST Audio-Visual Center. Guest speaker BGen. Romulo Quemado, a noted bird photographer, shared his experiences capturing various bird species through his lens and highlighted the vast potential of the sanctuary as a premier destination for bird-watching clubs around the world.

Meanwhile, ZSCMST Bird Sanctuary Conservation Strategist Ahasmarie Pasion underscored the college’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the importance of marshlands and wetlands in the country. She also announced the upcoming launch of a green program aimed at protecting and sustaining the sanctuary, which is now home to at least 52 documented bird species.

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