Dr. Venus E. Leopardas, Head of the Center for Environmental DNA Research and Development, and Mr. Ariel T. Antinero, a graduate student and scholar of CHED-SIKAP for the PhD Marine Biology program of MSUN, proudly represented the university at the International Symposium on Environmental DNA for Conservation and Biomonitoring in Southeast Asia (eDNA ConBio 2025) and the 10th International Workshop for Mangrove Biodiversity Studies by eDNA Metabarcoding. The event was held from February 18-23, 2025, at KTLC - The University of Nottingham Malaysia Teaching Centre, Malaysia.

This symposium, supported by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Core-to-Core Program, Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research, Japan Science and Technology Agency, and the JSPS KAKENHI Fund for Joint International Research, gathered leading experts in environmental DNA technology from across the region. The conference served as a platform to discuss the latest advancements and applications of eDNA in biodiversity monitoring and conservation.

For the symposium, Mr. Antinero presented the highlights of his recently published review paper focusing on the challenges and innovative approaches on eDNA metabarcoding. Dr. Leopardas shared initial activities on the study of the detection on non-indigenous Mytella strigata (Hanley, 1843) in Panguil Bay, Southern Philippines using qPCR analysis on eDNA samples.

The symposium aimed to bridge the gap between science and policy by fostering collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and conservation practitioners. Aside from exchanges of scientific ideas, policy and citizen science fora were conducted in the later part of the symposium. 

For the workshop, Dr. Leopards and Mr. Antinero joined the discussion and data processing for advanced learners, in which utilization of global datasets and their analysis were tackled. The workshop also showcased advanced sequencing technology and other current global collaborative programs related to advancing the application of eDNA technology. The application of environmental DNA in conservation and biomonitoring has gained significant recognition in Southeast Asia due to the growing accessibility of advanced omics platforms and expertise. The symposium highlighted how eDNA applications revolutionize biodiversity surveys, monitoring population dynamics of threatened and economically important species, and assessing the responses of ecosystems to environmental change.

MSU at Naawan’s involvement in this international event reflects the University’s deep commitment to advancing research and playing an active role in global efforts to conserve biodiversity and manage ecosystems sustainably. It’s more than just participation — it’s about sharing our passion, knowledge, and dedication to creating a better, more balanced world for future generations.