editorial


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Guest Editorial

The enterprise called science has been likened to the construction of an edifice.
There has to be a solid foundation from which a concrete and metal framework is
made. The framework then holds together the individual blocks that form the bulk
of the structure.

The foundation and the framework of Philippine marine science were and are
being laid by the pioneers such as Angel Alcala, Edgardo Gomez, Flor Lacanilao,
Francisco Nemenzo, Gavino Trono, Jr., Gregorio Velasquez, among many others.
Much of the subsequent work would not have risen to great heights if these pioneers
have not allowed us to build on their work. Others among us today have started
building new walls, annexes, and structures altogether, and will likely be pre-eminent
in the future. Whatever the structure, it starts with individual elements of metal
and concrete – the scientific paper. This volume (fourth in a series) contains some
of the scientific papers presented at the 8th National Symposium in Marine Science
(2005),  the largest symposium ever held on marine science in the Philippines. The
symposium was marked by greater participation from the regional marine science
institutions and non-governmental organizations. We are happy to see them
contribute to this edifice that is Philippine marine science.

Funding for the PAMS proceedings was provided by the Bureau of Agricultural
Research (BAR) and the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and
Development (PCAMRD).

Wilfredo “Al” Licuanan
Immediate Past President
Philippine Association of Marine Science