By Cherrylyn M. Macairan

CPU BS Biology students celebrate their championship win in the Problem-Solution Pitching Competition on November 22, 2025, at the City of Passi Arena with their innovative mangrove conservation project, “BarNOcles.”

BS Biology students from the Department of Life Sciences, Central Philippine University emerged as Champion among 23 participating teams from various academic institutions in the Problem-Solution Pitching Competition during the “Earth Warriors Invasion” organized by the Proyekto Volunteers Network Incorporated on November 22, 2025, at the City of Passi Arena.

The team impressed judges with their innovative project “BarNOcles,” a creative solution designed to mitigate barnacle infestation in mangrove ecosystems. Barnacle infestation is one of the major challenges in mangrove restoration, as it can compromise the survival of young mangrove saplings. Developing a nature-based solution that can inhibit barnacle fouling in mangroves represents an innovative and sustainable approach to addressing this environmental concern. This initiative forms part of the continuing efforts of the Central Philippine University – Center for Mangrove and Marine Biodiversity to strengthen mangrove conservation and restoration.

The event brought together students, local leaders, and community members for a day of learning, collaboration, and action towards a sustainable future.