Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan successfully conducted the first McKeough Marine Exploration (MM-X) Program from 28 to 30 May 2025, which was spearheaded by Xavier University’s McKeough Advancement for Environment, Resilience, and Sustainability (MAERS) Center. This program is a three-day immersive initiative that was designed for the incoming first year college and the senior high school learners, with a goal of establishing knowledge and interest in marine ecology, biodiversity, and conservation.
The program was inspired by the university’s long-standing Marine Summer Camp 2018 and 2019, featured both indoor and outdoor experiential learning sessions. Activities were held at Xavier University - Science Center Marine Laboratory (XU-SC 105), the coastal communities of Tubajon and Moog in Laguindingan, and the XU Marine Station in Solana, Jasaan. These locations were chosen for their ecological relevance and biodiversity.
here were five brave explorers who joined the program coming from Xavier University Senior High School, Liceo de Cagayan University and Corpus Christi High School. Each explorer was paired with a student facilitator from the Marine Biology Program, which promotes mentorship and hands-on scientific engagement.
The first day of the program focused on indoor academic sessions, including introductory activities and lectures. Mr Jesse Jan Galera, MSc, delivered a talk on marine ecology and biodiversity, emphasizing its significance in global and local contexts. This was followed by a technical session on marine biodiversity sampling and conservation methods led by Ms Alonzeyah Omangpang.
On the second day, explorers conducted fieldwork in Tubajon and Moog, Laguindingan — areas recognized for their high marine biodiversity. The group examined key coastal ecosystems under the guidance of subject-matter experts: Ms Karen Grace Magahin, MSc, for mangrove ecosystems; Ms Alonzeyah Omangpang for seagrass habitats; and Ms Anne Sherlyn G Bungcasan for coral reef systems. The explorers engaged in sampling activities and habitat assessments, gaining first-hand exposure to marine research techniques and ecological monitoring.
The program concluded with a coastal cleanup activity held at the XU Marine Station in Solana, Jasaan. Using masks and snorkels, explorers collected debris in shallow water and coastal zones, applying environmental stewardship in practice. A closing program was held, where the participants collaboratively designed a commemorative banner, symbolizing the culmination of their learning journey.
The MM-X Program represents Xavier University’s continued commitment to environmental education and youth engagement in marine conservation. By providing meaningful, place-based learning experiences, the program hopes to inspire future leaders and scientists in marine and environmental sciences.