Mabulig: AR-based mobile app to help (bulig) species ID

Created for the Filipino people to explore the dynamic intersection of taxonomy and technology
ABOUT THE PROJECT

Pioneering the creation of open-access 3D models

Mabulig is a two-year partnership between FSUU and the Emerging Technology Development Division of DOST-PCIEERD to promote the digitization of cultural heritage and to foster the creative media industry in the country. Live amphibians will be subjected to 3D photogrammetry and macrophotography (focus-stacking) to create scientific 3D models.

Frequently asked questions

The primary goal of the Mabulig project is to digitize amphibians of the Caraga Region by creating high-fidelity, open-access 3D models presented via an immersive Augmented Reality (AR) mobile application for interactive science education and biodiversity conservation awareness.

The featured interactive 3D models will show diagnostic characters allowing species identification. It will also show metadata for each species, such as habitat preference, basic morphometric measurements, current distribution within the Caraga Region, and other natural history information for researchers.

The vouchers of all created 3D models will be curated in the FSUU Natural History Collection to ensure transparency, repeatability, and integrity of the shared biodiversity data.

Public users can download the Mabulig mobile application to scan markers or surfaces, bringing 3D amphibian models to life on their screens.

The Mabulig mobile application will only showcase amphibian species from the Caraga Region. However, the pipeline for the creation of scientific 3D models using live biological samples will lay the groundwork for future digitization of other taxa.

Team

Alven L. Amarille

Field Research Assistant

Daphne Cayle M. Bahoy

Biologist

Rafe M. Brown

Herpetologist

Generoso V. Castillo Jr.

IT Specialist

Rejeenald M. Flores

Admin Support

Dominic R. Guiritan

Project Leader & Programmer

Ranuil F. Ronquillo

Administrative Assistant

Tess B. Sanguila

Herpetologist

John Ray S. Subrastas

Web Support Staff

Brevin Peter O. Tagsa

3D Artist

Fritz L. Villahermosa

3D Artist

Business hours

Monday⁠ - Thursday
7 AM - 5 PM
Saturday
8 AM - 12 NN
Natural History Collection Visit
Friday & Sunday
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