Frequently Asked Questions

BLUE ECONOMY LAB AND THE PCG

Q1. What is the role of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary Officers in Blue Economy partnerships?

A: As a liaison, the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary Officer may catalyze partnerships between the Coast Guard and universities and community leaders to support the blue economy. This includes identifying opportunities for collaboration, facilitating communication and cooperation, and ensuring that the needs of both parties are met.

Q2. What are the aims of these Blue Economy initiatives and partnerships?

A: The Philippine Coast Guard actively takes part in Blue Economy initiatives and partnerships to engage academics, researchers and scholars, fisherfolk communities, maritime practitioners, and other stakeholders in raising a well-grounded national maritime awareness and sense of duty in the protection and management of various maritime resources through facilitating inclusive dialog on maritime issues; conducting participatory studies or research on maritime law enforcement, maritime safety, and maritime environmental protection; and mobilizing further Blue Economy partnerships to encourage participatory and inter-disciplinary approaches in addressing development challenges in the Blue Economy.

Q3: What is the Philippine Coast Guard’s approach in dealing with Blue Economy initiatives or projects?

A: The Philippine Coast Guard follows an integrated approach to the planning, monitoring, and execution of its mandates. Many of these mandates can be jointly advanced with partner LGUs, other agencies, the academe, and private sector organizations. 

Q4. What is the blue economy?

A: The blue economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.

Q5. Why do we need the Blue Economy?

A: The immediate necessity for sustainable use of ocean- and coastal-based resources for economic growth, enhanced livelihoods, and maritime protection and conservation prompted the use and implementation of the Blue Economy framework. The Philippines needs the Blue Economy for the following reasons:

1.  Sustain Livelihoods— The ocean and coastal areas provide livelihoods for millions of people, particularly in developing countries. The blue economy can support sustainable livelihoods through responsible and sustainable use of ocean resources.

2.  Conserve Maritime Resources— The ocean and coastal areas are critical for the health of the planet and support a diverse range of species and ecosystems. The blue economy can support maritime conservation by promoting sustainable and responsible use of maritime resources, reducing pollution and waste, and protecting biodiversity.

3.  Mitigate Climate Change– The ocean and coastal areas play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, producing oxygen, and regulating the Earth's temperature. The blue economy can support climate change mitigation by promoting sustainable and low-carbon activities and reducing ocean-based emissions.

Q6. How does the Philippine Coast Guard support the blue economy?

A: The Philippine Coast Guard supports the blue economy by promoting safe, secure, and environmentally responsible use of the oceans and their resources. This includes enforcing laws and regulations, providing safety and security services, and collaborating with partners to address challenges and opportunities in the blue economy.

Q7. How can universities and community leaders get involved in blue economy partnerships with the Philippine Coast Guard?

A: Universities and community leaders can get involved by reaching out to the nearest Coast Guard District and expressing their interest in working together. The coast guard district office can then help to identify areas of mutual interest and facilitate the development of a partnership agreement.

Q8. What are some potential benefits of blue economy partnerships for universities and community leaders?

A: Blue economy partnerships can provide universities and community leaders with access to the expertise and resources of the Coast Guard, as well as opportunities for research and collaboration. Partnerships can also help to promote the responsible and sustainable use of ocean resources and support the development of a robust and thriving blue economy.

Q9: What assistance or support can the Philippine Coast Guard give in my Blue Economy-related ideas and/or projects?

A: Working with the Philippine Coast Guard might facilitate the alignment of Blue Economy-related projects that are carried out in a safe, secure, and environmentally-sound way. The Coast Guard might assist you in conceptualizing, implementing, evaluating, and validating your Blue Economy project concepts in a number of ways that are aligned to their mandates such as maritime safety and security, environmental protection, maritime law enforcement, and maritime domain awareness.

Q10: How does the Blue Economy support the Philippine Development Plan?

A: The Coast Guard ensures that its practice of Blue Economy is that which supports the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) by aligning with its goals and objectives for inclusive and sustainable growth and development. The following are ways in which the Blue Economy supports the PDP:

1.  Creation of Livelihoods— The Blue Economy can create new job opportunities in industries such as fishing, tourism, and renewable energy, aligning with the PDP's goal of poverty reduction and employment increase.

2.  Sustainable Development— The Blue Economy emphasizes sustainable and responsible use of ocean resources, supporting the PDP's objective of promoting sustainable development and reducing environmental degradation.

3.  Economic Growth— The Blue Economy can drive economic growth by increasing productivity and competitiveness in ocean-based industries, contributing to the PDP's goal of boosting economic growth and reducing inequality.

4.  Regional Integration— The Blue Economy can promote regional integration by facilitating trade and cooperation in the ocean-based sectors, aligning with the PDP's objective of enhancing regional cooperation and integration.

5.  Coastal Community Development— The Blue Economy can support the development of coastal communities by creating new livelihood opportunities and promoting sustainable ocean- and coastal-based management practices, contributing to the PDP's goal of improving the well-being of every Filipino.

BLUE ECONOMY LAB AND STUDENT AMBASSADORSHIP

Q1. What is the Blue Economy Lab?

A: The Blue Economy Lab is a research and innovation center that focuses on developing sustainable solutions for the ocean economy.

Q2. What is the role of a Student Ambassador in the Blue Economy Lab?

A: Student Ambassadors serve as representatives of the Blue Economy Lab on their respective campuses. They help to promote the lab's initiatives, recruit new members, and organize events and workshops.

Q3. What are the qualifications for becoming a Student Ambassador?

A: To be considered for the role of Student Ambassador, candidates should have a strong interest in the ocean economy and sustainability, and should be able to commit to a minimum of 10 hours per month to the role.

Q4.How can I apply to be a Student Ambassador?

A: To apply to be a Student Ambassador, please visit the Blue Economy Lab website and submit the online application form.

Q5.What kind of training and support do Student Ambassadors receive?

A: Student Ambassadors receive training on the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives and goals, as well as guidance on how to organize events and engage with their campus communities and external network. They will also have access to a network of other ambassadors and lab staff for support and guidance.

Q6. Does the Blue Economy Lab provide funding for projects?

A: Usually, we don't provide funding for projects. Project teams and student ambassadors are encouraged to mobilize funding for their own projects. Financial support might be mobilized from university research projects, local socio-civic organizations, local companies, and sponsors.  

Q7.What kind of events can Student Ambassadors organize?

A: Student Ambassadors can organize a variety of events such as workshops, seminars, and networking events to educate their peers on the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives and the ocean economy. They can also participate in existing events and conferences to promote the Blue Economy Lab's mission.

Q8: Are there any restrictions on the topics for events under the Blue Economy Lab?

A: Blue Economy Lab events and communication must be aligned to the mission, vision, and standards of the Blue Economy Lab. Events are organized to share emerging research and foster dialogue and mutual understanding on various aspects of the blue economy.

Events must be non-political and non-sectarian. No officer, member, or guest speaker should express opinions or make statements on controversial social, public policy, cultural, religious, or political issues in the name of the Blue Economy Lab. Student Ambassadors will not endorse or denounce any political organization, religious organization, social group, public official, or any other special interest organization.

Q9: Are there any benefits to being a Student Ambassador?

A: Being a Student Ambassador provides an opportunity to gain leadership experience, network with experts in the field, and contribute to a sustainable ocean economy. Additionally, it can be a good addition to a CV for anyone interested in pursuing a career in this field. It is possible that organizations the student ambassadors engage with will have some job openings, and your relationships as Student Ambassador can be an asset as you look for a job later on.  

Q10. How do Student Ambassadors mobilize student organizations as partners of the Blue Economy Lab?

A: Mobilizing student organizations as partners of the Blue Economy Lab involves several steps:

1. Research: Research the different student organizations on campus and identify those that align with the Blue Economy Lab's mission and goals.

2. Introduction: Reach out to the student organizations and introduce the Blue Economy Lab and its mission. Provide information about the lab's initiatives and explain how they align with the student organization's priorities.

3. Schedule a meeting: Request a meeting with the student organizations to discuss potential areas of partnership.

4. Preparation: Prepare a proposal outlining specific areas of partnership and the potential benefits for both the Blue Economy Lab and the student organization.

5. Meeting: Attend the meeting and present the proposal. Be prepared to answer any questions the student organization may have and to discuss next steps.

6. Follow-up: After the meeting, follow up with the student organization to reiterate the points discussed and to confirm next steps.

7. Execution: Work together with the student organization to execute the agreed-upon partnership.

8. Communication: Keep the student organization informed about the progress of the partnership and any new developments related to the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives.

It's important to remember that building a partnership with student organizations requires clear communication and cooperation. It's important to show the value of the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives, understand the student organization's concerns and priorities, and be transparent about the benefits for both parties. Additionally, it's important to establish clear roles and responsibilities for each party and to establish regular communication and check-ins to ensure that the partnership is progressing smoothly.

Q11. How do Student Ambassadors recruit faculty to be Teaching Fellows at the Blue Economy Lab?

A: Recruiting faculty to be Teaching Fellows at the Blue Economy Lab involves several steps:

1. Identify potential candidates: Identify faculty members on campus who have expertise and interest in the ocean economy and sustainability.

2. Introduction: Reach out to potential candidates and introduce the Blue Economy Lab and its mission. Provide information about the lab's initiatives and explain the opportunity to be a Teaching Fellow.

3. Schedule a meeting: Request a meeting with potential candidates to discuss the opportunity in more detail and to answer any questions they may have.

4. Preparation: Prepare a detailed proposal outlining the benefits of the Teaching Fellow program, the expectations, the responsibilities, and the compensation.

5. Meeting: Attend the meeting and present the proposal. Be prepared to answer any questions the potential candidates may have and to discuss the next steps.

6. Follow-up: After the meeting, follow up with the potential candidates to reiterate the points discussed and to confirm the next steps.

7. Execution: Work together with the selected Teaching Fellow to execute the agreed-upon partnership.

8. Communication: Keep the Teaching Fellow informed about the progress of the partnership and any new developments related to the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives.

It's important to remember that building a partnership with faculty members requires clear communication and cooperation. It's important to show the value of the Teaching Fellow program, understand the faculty members' concerns and priorities, and be transparent about the benefits for both parties. Additionally, it's important to establish clear roles and responsibilities for each party and to establish regular communication and check-ins to ensure that the partnership is progressing smoothly.

Q12. What is the role of a student ambassador liaising with government agencies, youth leaders, and community organizations?

A: As a Student Ambassador for the Blue Economy Lab, one of your roles may be to liaison with government agencies, youth leaders, and community organizations. This would involve establishing and maintaining relationships with these groups in order to promote the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives and goals, and to gain support for its programs and research.

In particular, you may be responsible for:

• Identifying relevant government agencies and youth leaders who may be interested in supporting the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives.

• Reaching out to these organizations and individuals to introduce the Blue Economy Lab and its mission and to establish a dialogue about potential areas of collaboration.

• Keeping the Blue Economy Lab informed about the activities and priorities of these organizations and leaders, and identifying opportunities for the lab to engage with them.

• Assisting the Blue Economy Lab in organizing and participating in events and activities with government agencies, youth leaders, and community organizations.

Act as a bridge between the Blue Economy Lab and the relevant community organizations and youth leaders to educate them on the initiatives and goals of the lab, and to gain support for its programs and research.

Q13. What are steps in establishing collaboration with a municipal mayor?

A: Establishing collaboration with a municipal mayor involves several steps:

1. Research: Research the mayor's priorities and initiatives to see if they align with the Blue Economy Lab's mission and goals.

2. Introduction: Reach out to the mayor's office and introduce the Blue Economy Lab and its mission. Provide information about the lab's initiatives and explain how they align with the mayor's priorities.

3. Schedule a meeting: Request a meeting with the mayor to discuss potential areas of collaboration.

4. Preparation: Prepare a presentation or proposal outlining specific areas of collaboration and the potential benefits for the municipality.

5. Meeting: Attend the meeting and present the proposal or presentation. Be prepared to answer any questions the mayor may have and to discuss next steps.

6. Follow-up: After the meeting, follow up with the mayor's office to reiterate the points discussed and to confirm next steps.

7. Execution: Work together with the mayor's office to execute the agreed upon collaboration.

8. Communication: Keep the mayor's office informed about the progress of the collaboration and any new developments related to the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives.

It's important to keep in mind that building a relationship with a municipal mayor is a long-term process that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to listen and learn about the mayor's priorities and challenges. Building trust and showing the value of the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives to the community are key to establish a successful collaboration.

Q14. What are the steps in liaising with the local coast guard station?

A: Liaising with the local coast guard station involves several steps:

1. Research: Research the local coast guard station's mission, priorities, and areas of focus. This will help you understand how the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives align with the coast guard's goals and identify potential collaboration areas.

2. Introduction: Reach out to the coast guard station and introduce the Blue Economy Lab and its mission. Provide information about the lab's initiatives and explain how they align with the coast guard's priorities.

3. Schedule a meeting: Request a meeting with the coast guard station to discuss potential areas of collaboration.

4. Preparation: Prepare a presentation or proposal outlining specific areas of collaboration and the potential benefits for the coast guard.

5. Meeting: Attend the meeting and present the proposal or presentation. Be prepared to answer any questions the coast guard may have and to discuss the next steps.

6. Follow-up: After the meeting, follow up with the coast guard station to reiterate the points discussed and to confirm the next steps.

7. Execution: Work together with the coast guard station to execute the agreed-upon collaboration.

8. Communication: Keep the coast guard station informed about the progress of the collaboration and any new developments related to the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives.

It's important to keep in mind that building a relationship with a local coast guard station may require adhering to specific protocols, and it may take time to gain their trust. It's important to show the value of the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives and to understand their concerns and priorities.

Q15. What are the steps in establishing partnerships with socio-civic organizations like the Rotary Club, Jaycees, Kiwanis, etc.?

A: Establishing a partnership with socio-civic organizations includes several steps:

1. Research: Research the Rotary Club's mission, priorities, and areas of focus and the personal interests and advocacies of its key officers. This will help you understand how the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives align with the Rotary Club's goals and identify potential partnership areas.

2. Introduction: Reach out to the Rotary Club and introduce the Blue Economy Lab and its mission. Provide information about the lab's initiatives and explain how they align with the Rotary Club's priorities.

3. Schedule a meeting: Request a meeting with the Rotary Club to discuss potential areas of partnership.

4. Preparation: Prepare a proposal outlining specific areas of partnership and the potential benefits for both the Blue Economy Lab and the Rotary Club.

5. Meeting: Attend the meeting and present the proposal. Be prepared to answer any questions the Rotary Club may have and to discuss the next steps.

6. Follow-up: After the meeting, follow up with the Rotary Club to reiterate the points discussed and to confirm the next steps.

7. Execution: Work together with the Rotary Club to execute the agreed-upon partnership.

8. Communication: Keep the Rotary Club informed about the progress of the partnership and any new developments related to the Blue Economy Lab's initiatives.

It's important to remember that building a partnership with socio-civic organizations like Rotary Club requires clear communication and cooperation. It's important to show the value of the Blue Economy Lab's initiative, understand the Rotary Club's concerns and priorities, and be transparent about the benefits for both parties.

BLUE CARBON RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP

Q1. What is Blue Carbon Research Fellowship?

A: The Blue Carbon Research Fellowship comprises a series of workshops which aims to facilitate a participatory dialog about Blue Economy issues, initiatives, and solutions. It is organized by the Blue Economy Lab in partnership with the Coast Guard Strategic Studies and International Affairs Center (CGSSIAC).

Q2. What are the objectives of the research fellowship?

A: The research fellows are encouraged for a participatory approach in designing and implementing blue carbon projects. The objectives of this program are:

1. to design and implement sustainable blue carbon projects;

2. to develop local capacity for inclusive business incubation and capital mobilization for blue economy enterprises; and

3. to co-create local policies and institutional arrangements to support the blue economy.

Q3. Who is eligible to join?

A: The Blue Carbon Research Fellowship targets early career researchers— graduate students— who are inclined to work towards knowledge production about the Blue Economy from an interdisciplinary perspective. The research fellowship is open for students, scholars, and researchers from areas that include but are not limited to the natural and social sciences, education, engineering, architecture, business, tourism, and public administration, and public health.

Q4. What are the fellowship’s main questions or points of departure?

A: The Blue Carbon Research Fellowship aims to facilitate a dialog that is able to contribute significant ideas or insights about the use, management, and conservation of the Philippines’ ocean- and coastal-based resources and capacities. What policy recommendations on the conservation and sustainable use of blue carbon ecosystems can be proposed? How can we promote the integration of blue carbon conservation and sustainable use into national and subnational policy frameworks? What other means of support systems can be formulated and initiated to complement the development and practice of sustainable blue carbon-based business models? The Blue Economy Lab draws on various Blue Economy concepts and praxis as applied in different environments and contexts around the world to articulate these salient questions.

Q5. What are the Activities during the Research Fellowship?

A: The activities provided for the Blue Carbon Fellows will actively engage them in the discourse on the Blue Economy. Their different backgrounds and sets of expertise will be highlighted and shall facilitate inclusive, participatory, and inter-disciplinary approaches in addressing issues and development challenges in the Blue Economy.

A team of Blue Economy researchers and practitioners will provide lectures about concepts, trends, and developments about the Blue Economy.

Q6: Where and when are Research Fellowships held?

A: Please wait for further announcements on our website.

Q7. How can one apply for the Blue Carbon Research Fellowship?

The research fellowship is open for students enrolled in graduate programs from any CHED-recognized HEIs and universities in Intramuros.

Fellowship applicants shall submit their applications on or before the set deadline. Successful applicants will be notified via email.

The application shall include the following:

1. Cover letter expressing the applicant’s attendance and intent to undergo and complete the research workshops

2. Update curriculum vitae

3. Research proposal on the Blue Economy (500 to 700 words)

4. Scanned copy of the registration form or any proof of enrolment in the undergraduate or graduate program. The complete requirements shall be sent to our official email address.