The Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT), in collaboration with Speleo Naliyagan, held a seminar titled “Agusan Caves: Science, Arts, and Exploration” on October 27, 2025, at the ASSCAT DTC Hall. This aimed to deepen students’ understanding of cave exploration while promoting conservation and responsible research.

The seminar gathered local and international cave explorers and environmental advocates, including Mikko Cuevas, Rand Heazlitt, Dao Van Hoang, Laura Demarest, Marion Ziemons, Thomas Hawkins, and Arnel Pasilan, who shared insights on cave science, conservation, rescue preparedness, art and documentation in speleology, and biodiversity preservation.

In observance of National Indigenous Peoples Month, the activity also highlighted the cultural and ecological value of caves to local communities and the importance of traditional knowledge in sustainable exploration. It concluded by reaffirming support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Quality Education, Climate Action, Life Below Water, Life on Land, Reduced Inequalities, and Partnerships for the Goals, reflecting ASSCAT’s and Speleo Naliyagan’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.