The Sangguniang Panlalawigan is pushing for the opening of a Bachelor of Science in Geology program at Palawan State University and Western Philippines University, citing growing interest among Palawan students and the province’s rich geological resources.
Board Member Ryan Maminta, author of the proposed resolution, said offering the degree locally would give aspiring geologists in Palawan an opportunity to pursue the course without having to leave the province.
“Kailangan na po naman ng kursong Bachelor of Science in Geology sa Palawan State University at Western Philippines University. Sapagkat maraming Palaweno na interesado sa kursong yan at sa pag-aaral na yan,” Maminta said.
He noted that several Palawenos have already gained recognition in the field, including geologists who have excelled in professional examinations and those who have taken leadership roles in the sector.
Maminta cited Palaweña geologist Dainty Rabang, as well as professors at the University of the Philippines National Institute of Geological Sciences who trace their roots to Palawan.
He said Palawan’s geological characteristics and resources make the province an ideal setting for geology education and field training.
“Sa iba’t-ibang larangan kasi, importante na maitulak na magkaroon niyan dito dahil sa geological resources and character ng Palawan ay sana siyang laboratoryo kaagad-agad nung kursong Geological Sciences,” he said.
Maminta said the province also has potential employment opportunities for geology graduates in oil and gas exploration, disaster risk reduction and management, energy, mining and education.
“Yung mga trabaho dito katulad na lang nung oil and gas exploration, disaster risk reduction management, sa energy, sa mining, sa education mismo ng geology ay hinog na hinog ang lalawigan ng Palawan,” he added.
While he could not provide an exact estimate of the number of students interested in the program, Maminta said many Palawenos are taking geology entrance examinations and seeking opportunities to study the course at universities outside the province.
He said establishing the program at PalSU and WPU would help address the need for local geology education and allow students to pursue the field without having to relocate to Metro Manila or other areas.
“Ang kulang na lang ay yung talagang offering ng courses. Na sila mismo ay hindi na sila yayao pa o pupunta pa sa ibang mga lugar katulad ng Metro Manila,” Maminta said.
