This paper documents the proceedings of a roundtable discussion titled "Biodiversity Sciences for the West Philippine Sea: The What and the How," which explores the critical role of scientific research in managing and protecting the marine ecosystems within the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The study examines the current state of marine biodiversity in the region, focusing on the ecological connectivity of coral reefs, fisheries, and seagrass beds. Key discussions center on the technical "how-tos" of conducting scientific expeditions in contested waters, the importance of long-term monitoring, and the integration of biodiversity data into national security and resource management policies. By synthesizing insights from marine biologists, oceanographers, and policy experts, the proceedings advocate for a science-based approach to sovereignty and stewardship. Ultimately, the research highlights that a robust understanding of biodiversity is essential not only for environmental preservation but also for ensuring the food security and economic resilience of the Philippines.