In this episode, host Francine Barchett interviews Dr. Kristian Karlo Saguin, Associate Professor of Geography at the University of the Philippines Diliman. Dr. Saguin unpacks his recent Gatty Lecture, based on his award-winning book Urban Ecologies on the Edge: Making Manila’s Resource Frontier (winner of the Benda Prize). Their conversation explores the complex socio-environmental dynamics of Laguna Lake—from its role in shaping consumer preferences for fish to its impact on flooding in Metro Manila and beyond. We’re also pretty sure Dr. Saguin is the most enthusiastic geographer we’ve ever had on the show!

Lightning round: 2:57 

Research and Lecture Summary: 10:32  Advice for researchers and recommendations: 43:45

Dr. Saguin’s top recommendations:

• The Camphor Tree and the Elephant Book by Faizah Zakaria

• The Pulse of the Earth: Political Geology in Java

 

The music on the podcast is from "14 Strings!", a Filipino style Rondalla group established in Cornell University. Check them out here.