The UP Diliman Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (IESM), through its Marine Mammal Research and Conservation Laboratory, received a Gawad Parangal para sa mga Kabalikat ng Pangisdaan on 3 September 2026 for its work on Irrawaddy dolphins in San Miguel Bay. The recognition was presented during the Regional Summit on Malinis at Masaganang Katubigan (MMK), Fisheries Management Areas (FMAs), and Marine Mammal Conservation, held on 3–4 September at Gamboa’s Orchard in San Jose, Malilipot, Albay. Dr. Lemnuel V. Aragones received the award on behalf of IESM.

IESM’s work on the Irrawaddy dolphin population in San Miguel Bay began in 2022, following the documented stranding of an Irrawaddy dolphin in Calabanga, Camarines Sur. The MMRCL subsequently conducted a reconnaissance survey in the bay in October 2022, followed by its first systematic survey in 2023 and succeeding surveys in 2025 and 2026. These efforts have supported continued documentation of the presence, distribution, and habitat use of the critically endangered species in the bay.

The recognition comes as the MMRCL and its partners prepare to further expand their collaboration with BFAR Region V on Irrawaddy dolphin research in San Miguel Bay. The laboratory also serves as the research and conservation arm of the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network, which has formalized a partnership with BFAR to strengthen marine mammal research, conservation, and coordination. Continued work in San Miguel Bay is expected to generate more comprehensive information on the population, distribution, habitat use, and conservation needs of Irrawaddy dolphins in the area.