In collaboration with the Philippine Toxinology Society, Inc. (PhiTonS), the Catanduanes State University–College of Sciences (CatSU-COS) conducted a training on first aid management for snakebite and jellyfish stings on January 30, 2026, attended by over 50 participants.

According to the College of Sciences, the activity aimed to equip participants with evidence-based, practical, and context-appropriate knowledge on the immediate management of envenomation cases.

The training focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of venom effects, correct first-aid interventions, and practices to avoid, while emphasizing the importance of timely referral to appropriate medical facilities.

Anchored on CatSU’s mandate for health education, the college said the program strengthened community preparedness, improved safety awareness, and fostered interdisciplinary collaboration among the academe, health professionals, and local stakeholders.

“The program contributes to risk reduction, informed decision-making, and the protection of lives, particularly in vulnerable agricultural and coastal settings,” the college added.

The training was led by Marvin Jay R. Sarmiento, a wildlife biologist, master’s degree holder in Wildlife Science from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, and a post-graduate trainee in Clinical Toxinology at King Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand. 

Participants also engaged in hands-on demonstrations on first-aid management.

PhiTonS is a non-profit organization that promotes research and the dissemination of updated scientific information in the field of toxinology.