Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo (May 9, 2025)—In a collective effort to support faculty research across Western Visayas, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) welcomed colleagues from nearby universities for a crucial gathering at Paler Hall on their Main Campus-Tiwi Site here today. The event brought together specialists, finance officers, and university leaders from ISUFST, Guimaras State University (GSU), and the University of Antique (UA). Their goal was simple but vital: to find better ways to harmonize the workload of teachers so they can also give a premium to research and innovation.
This meeting was a joint effort by ISUFST and the Western Visayas Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (WCCIEERD). Both understand how tough it can be for faculty members—sometimes the obstacles can seem overwhelming. Unclear policies about workload, limited budgets, and inconsistent incentives often leave teachers feeling tired, supported, and unsure of how to pursue their research dreams. The gathering aimed to listen, share ideas, and find practical solutions that would make research more accessible and less stressful for those eager to grow in their fields.
One of the main ideas discussed was adopting a unified, regional approach to faculty workload—specifically, an 18-unit workload that many believe could help teachers better balance their teaching duties, community work, and research. The hope is that with clearer policies and more support, teachers will feel motivated and empowered to contribute to regional development through their research efforts.
Several practical strategies were shared to help make this vision a reality. These included maintaining or reducing current overloads for both full-time and part-time teachers, consolidating retiree and resigned faculty positions into one role over the next five years, reviewing organizational structures to lessen administrative burdens, and streamlining academic programs by closing less popular courses or reducing sections. There was even a suggestion to increase funds for overload and part-time teaching starting next year, if resources allow.
During the discussions, Dr. Greta Gabinete from West Visayas State University (WVSU) shared her university’s experience with implementing the 18-unit workload. She explained how this approach allows teachers to better manage their responsibilities and focus more on research and community outreach—activities that truly help regional growth and development.
During the discussions, Dr. Greta Gabinete from West Visayas State University (WVSU) shared her university’s experience with implementing the 18-unit workload. She explained how this approach allows teachers to better manage their responsibilities and focus more on research and community outreach—activities that truly help regional growth and development.
Meanwhile, WVCIEERD Consortium Director Dr. Carmelo Ambut from Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) shared how their university successfully adopted similar policies on a gradual basis. His stories showed how these changes have helped their faculty become more productive, happier, and more fulfilled in their roles.
For his part, ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., highlighted his full support for the initiative. He stressed that professors and instructors need time and space to teach, research, and help their communities. “When we give our teachers the understanding and support to grow through research and professional development, they can truly make a difference…. Their dedication to innovation and social impact will truly help build stronger, more compassionate communities for all of us,” he said.
In the late morning and afternoon, participants focused on working through their school’s action plans—crafting, presenting, and offering constructive feedback. The day wrapped up with a shared commitment to carry these plans into action once everyone returns to their respective schools and communities. (Photos by Ricky Ramos/Text by Herman Lagon/ PAMMCO/Published by Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS)
