Silliman hosts Bristol Zoological Society for conservation training and collaboration

The Silliman University (SU) Center for Tropical Conservation Studies (CENTROP) welcomed representatives from the Bristol Zoological Society on April 20, 2026, for a multi-faceted visit aimed at strengthening conservation practices, advancing technical capacity, and expanding institutional partnerships.

Leading the activities were Asst. Prof. Leandro S. Cabrera, CENTROP Coordinator; Ricardo Lemos de Figueiredo, an animal behavior, welfare, and ex situ conservation specialist from Bristol Zoological Society; and Dr. Robert S. Guino-o II, Project Leader for the SU-DOST Philippine Spotted Deer Genetics Project.

Key Objectives of the Visit

The visit centered on four key objectives. First, capacity building and technical training were conducted for CENTROP personnel on the use of ZooMonitor, a digital application widely utilized by zookeepers, researchers, and volunteers to record and analyze animal behavior, and the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), a global database that supports improved animal record-keeping, behavioral monitoring, and data-driven management of wildlife under human care.

Second, the delegation engaged in academic knowledge sharing through a lecture held on April 23, 2026, at SC 110. Titled “Conservation Beyond the Wild: Strategies in Ex Situ Conservation and Species Reintroduction,” the session brought together students from Silliman University, Foundation University, and St. Paul University Dumaguete, providing them with insights into contemporary conservation strategies beyond natural habitats.

Third, the team conducted an assessment of animal welfare practices at CENTROP facilities, offering expert observations on current conditions and management systems. Recommendations were shared to help align operations with international animal welfare standards.

The visit also opened discussions on strengthening research and institutional collaboration, with both parties exploring potential joint initiatives in conservation science, animal welfare, and environmental education. Since 2014, Bristol Zoological Society has been an active partner of Silliman University.