The 5-day World Lecture Series during November 13-17 organized by the Department of Biology, College of Science, UP Baguio, concludes

The 5-day World Expert Lecture Series (WELS) with Dr. Raelene Crandall and Dr. Jennifer Fill, organized by the Department of Biology, with the Lecture Series Committee, College of Science, UP Baguio has come to a close. The World Expert Lecture Series was celebrated along with the National Science Technology Week, ran from November 13 to 17. Explored topics included the initiatives to safeguard the Camp John Hay Forest Reserve, which were shared by distinguished speakers, Engr. Editha M Mejia and Professor Zenaida Baoanan. WELS speakers Dr. Crandall and Dr Fill also shared the ecology of pine savannas and Florida’s experience with the use of fire to harness and promote diversity in forest and savanna ecosystems, emphasizing the role of fire and fire regimes as important ecological processes.

A two-day field trip and workshop at Camp John Hay was conducted on November 15–16 with MS CaRE and undergraduate students. The activity focused on analyzing tree size structure to understand the effects of fire on population dynamics.

The event concluded with a discussion of possible collaboration with the faculty of the Department of Biology, Dr. Crandall, Dr. Fill, and other members of government agencies.

A huge and heartfelt thank you to Dr. Crandall and Dr. Fill for generously sharing their vast knowledge, expertise, and insights with us. We appreciate the time and effort dedicated to preparing the presentations and the courage to present a new perception about fire in a community where fires carry a negative connotation. We hope that you have enjoyed your short stay in the Philippines.

We would also like to extend our appreciation to all participants who have joined us throughout this lecture series. This event wouldn’t be successful without your active involvement and enthusiasm throughout the event.

We would also like to extend our thanks to Assoc. Prof. Aris Reginaldo and the UP Office of International Linkages for making this event possible. Your hard work and commitment to fostering international collaboration have played a crucial role in bringing this lecture series to life. We wish to also recognize the CLAN Office, CPDMO, and the OPA for providing us with much-needed technical support.

See you at our next WELS!