The Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, in coordination with the ASSCAT Health & Wellness Unit, successfully conducted Biosphere 2025 on September 12, 2025, at the ASSCAT Sports and Socio-Cultural Center. The seminar, bearing the theme “Bridging Insights on Science, Public Health, and Ecology for Resilience and Education,” convened over 700 students from various programs to engage in discourse on urgent local and global concerns.

The activity addressed two significant issues affecting Agusan del Sur and its neighboring communities: the increasing environmental threat posed by peatland fires and the continuing public health challenge of HIV infection. By linking scientific perspectives with community advocacy, Biosphere 2025 emphasized the shared responsibility of academic institutions and students in fostering awareness, resilience, and informed action.

Two resource speakers enriched the discussions: Mr. Andrei P. Lee, SHIP-PEER Navigator, delivered an in-depth lecture on HIV Awareness, focusing on prevention strategies, destigmatization, and community-based responses. Ms. Sherrilyn A. Vasquez, PAMO Superintendent, presented a comprehensive discussion on Peatland Fires and Climate Change, highlighting the ecological and socio-economic impacts of peatland degradation and the urgency of sustainable environmental practices.

The seminar was facilitated by third-year BS Biology students as part of their Research 100 course, exemplifying ASSCAT’s commitment to integrating academic coursework with community-responsive initiatives. Partnerships with PAMO, PHO Agusan del Sur, PSWDO, Bunawan RHU, VGPMH, and active participation of student organizations CRCY, Haynayanista, and CASSO contributed to the event’s success.

The program was supported by RHU Bunawan, PHO Agusan del Sur, PSWDO, and LGU Bunawan Vice Mayor Ednard Gil B. Elorde, underscoring the value of inter-agency collaboration and local government engagement in educational and advocacy efforts.

In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—notably SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)—Biosphere 2025 demonstrated ASSCAT’s proactive role in promoting environmental stewardship, public health awareness, and scientific literacy within the academe and the wider community.