The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (BSES) fourth year students of the University of Northern Philippines embarked on a three-day Educational Field Exposure from February 25 to 27, immersing themselves in biodiversity-rich ecosystems and conservation institutions in Isabela.
The activity, undertaken as part of their Biodiversity Conservation and Management (ENVI SCI 116) course under Dr. Bondee L. Peñaflor, provided students with valuable hands-on learning experiences that bridged classroom concepts with real-world environmental practices. During the field exposure, the students visited key conservation sites, including the Philippine Crocodile Conservation Center (PCCC) of the Mabuwaya Foundation in San Mariano and the Fuyot Spring Natural Park (FSNP), also known as the Ilagan Wildlife Sanctuary, in the City of Ilagan.
On the first day of the field exposure, the visited the Philippine Crocodile Conservation Center (PCCC) located within the Isabela State University–San Mariano Campus. The group, led by Dr. Bondee Peñaflor, was warmly welcomed by Mabuwaya Foundation Executive Director Dr. Merlijn van Weerd, a faculty member at the Institute of Environmental Sciences of Leiden University in the Netherlands. He was joined by Forester Marites Gatan-Balbas, Chief Operating Officer of the foundation; Mr. Amante Yogyog Jr., PCCC Manager; and other members of the Mabuwaya Foundation staff.
On the second day, the group returned to the PCCC to observe a health examination conducted on juvenile crocodiles by a team of veterinary practitioners. The activity gave the students a closer look at the careful monitoring and scientific procedures involved in ensuring the well-being of the endangered reptiles prior to their release into the wild.
Later in the day, the group traveled to Sitio Dunoy in Barangay Villa Miranda, San Mariano, where the Dunoy Lakes—designated Crocodile Sanctuaries—are located. Before reaching the lakes, the students trekked across the Catallangan River, another protected crocodile habitat. At the first lake, the participants attended a lecture and briefing on the proper procedures for releasing crocodiles into their natural environment. Two juvenile crocodiles were then successfully released—one by the UNP group and another by the National Museum of the Philippines.
Representing the UNP delegation, BSES student Mr. Marvin Cabañero had the honor of releasing a freshwater crocodile back into its natural habitat. In a symbolic gesture, the group named the crocodile “ESang,” inspired by Environmental Science and their shared hope for a thriving future for wildlife conservation. Watching ESang swim freely into the lake was a meaningful moment for the students, highlighting the significance of conservation efforts and the role of future environmental stewards.
Dr. Peñaflor guided the students through engaging group activities, including “The Circle of Life” and the “Commitment Circle,” designed to deepen the lessons gained during their educational field exposure. Under the night sky, the students shared personal reflections, discussed their dreams, embraced their responsibilities, and reaffirmed their commitment to their chosen paths as future environmental practitioners. The evening concluded with the students preparing and enjoying their meals together, fostering camaraderie and a sense of community.
On the third day of their field exposure, the students journeyed from Sitio Dunoy at dawn to the Ilagan Wildlife Sanctuary in the City of Ilagan, one of Isabela’s premier protected areaswhere students were allowed full access to the sanctuary’s rich natural resources.
At the Protected Area Management Office, the students were warmly welcomed by Ms. Junee Amor Mijares, Protected Area Superintendent of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Community Environment and Natural Resources Office Naguilian, and her team. Ms. Mijares provided an insightful orientation on Isabela’s various protected areas, highlighting the province’s remarkable biodiversity and the conservation efforts in place to safeguard these ecosystems.
The immersive experience continued as the students explored the sanctuary’s caves, including the Main Cave, Moon Cave, and Altar Cave. There, they observed unique cave formations, encountered local wildlife, and gained a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystems thriving within the Ilagan Wildlife Sanctuary.
Beyond the breathtaking landscapes of the sanctuary, it was the human stories that resonated most with the students. During their visit, they had the chance to interview a local tour guide, who shared a personal journey marked by hardships, sacrifices, and unwavering resilience. Her candid account offered a glimpse into the realities faced by communities living within and around protected areas, highlighting that environmental conservation is as much about people and culture as it is about wildlife and ecosystems.
Reflecting on the experience, one Environmental Science student remarked, “Mahirapang buhay ngunit gaano nga ba ito kahirap para sa mga kababayan nating Agta na nakatira sakalaliman ng bulubundukin ng Sierra Madre.” The statement underscored a collective realization among the group: while life presents challenges for everyone, some communities—particularly indigenous groups in remote mountain regions—face far greater struggles.
The encounter inspired empathy and strengthened the students’ sense of social responsibility. They capped their visit with a modest snack-giving activity for the local children, whose bright smiles and genuine gratitude became one of the tour’s most unforgettable moments. The experience served as a powerful reminder that even the simplest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact.
As the Educational Field Exposure concluded, the students returned home enriched not only with knowledge but with a renewed perspective on the world around them. From the forests and lakes to the caves and rich biodiversity, every encounter left an indelible mark, highlighting the deep connection between nature and humanity. What began as a field activity became a profound learning experience, demonstrating that environmental science thrives at the intersection of curiosity, compassion, and service. Reflecting on the journey, one student expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to participate under Dr. Peñaflor’s guidance, marking their first experience of learning beyond the province—a memory and lesson that will undoubtedly stay with them for a lifetime.
Article by Dr. Bondee Peñaflor & V-Jay Remolacio
