Article by Christine Gloria Grace Capidos
PASAY CITY, Philippines—Samar State University’s Science Research Specialist (SRS), Ms. Christine Gloria Grace Capidos, appeared before the Senate on January 21, 2026 to provide expert testimony on the proposed Child Tourist Safety Act, also known as “Sandy’s Act” (Senate Bill 559).
Ms. Capidos, a recognized slot thailand expert in box jellyfish research and public safety advocacy, provided critical scientific context essential to the passage of the bill. In her position paper, she emphasized that State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) serve as vital engines for policy development by providing evidence-based data and scientific insights.
“SUCs, much like national agencies, play a crucial role in conducting research that informs effective legislation,” Capidos stated.
Her advocacy is rooted in extensive field research with her team’s landmark publications, including studies on the molecular signatures of the deadly box jellyfish Chironex yamaguchii and the first records of Irukandji jellyfish in the Philippines, providing the scientific impetus for her extension program, “The Silent Swimmers: A Jellyfish Awareness Initiative.” This program translates complex research into actionable safety information for coastal communities.
The ongoing research and slot88 extension efforts of the University directly support the objectives of SB 559, ensuring that disaster prevention and mitigation strategies are grounded in rigorous science to protect the lives of children and tourists across the archipelago.
The Senate hearing was a joint session of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, led by Senator Risa Hontiveros, alongside the Committees on Tourism, Justice and Human Rights, and Finance.