THE MINDANAO State University-General Santos unveiled a biodiversity research center that aims to boost the research capability of the region.

The unveiling was led by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension.

Dubbed “Center for Biodiversity Studies in SOCKSARGEN,” the facility will help students investigate various critical issues surrounding indigenous flora and fauna and ecosystems in Region 12.

It also aims to identify and protect critically-endangered plant and animal species and conserve terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in the Mount Matutum Protected Landscape, Allah Valley Protected Landscape and the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape.

The CBSS was proposed in 2018 through the Department of Budget and Management and the National Economic and Development Authority of Region 12.