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ISUFST Participates in DICT’s National Forum on Digital Transformation
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) hosted a pivotal national conference on December 4, 2024, in Kalat Street Extension, Manila. The conference brought together Chief Information Officers (CIOs) from national government agencies, government-owned corporations, and state universities, including Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST). It focused on advancing digital transformation across the public sector.
The event featured the official launch of the CIO Council, mandated by the DICT Act (Republic Act 10844), and unveiled the eGovernment master plan. The CIO Council, formed after eight years of planning, aims to streamline government ICT initiatives and improve inter-agency collaboration. “The CIO Council consolidates efforts from various government agencies, creating a platform for sharing challenges, solutions, and initiatives to enhance e-governance,” said DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy.
ISUFST was represented by Dr. Herman Lagon, the newly appointed Chief Information Officer and Director of the Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications Office (PAMMCO) at the university. His participation underscores ISUFST’s commitment to digital transformation in education and administration. Dr. Lagon’s role is essential in guiding ISUFST’s ongoing digitization and digitalization efforts, helping the university align its ICT initiatives with national developments.
Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr., President of ISUFST, expressed strong support for the university’s involvement in the conference, stating, “This participation is crucial for ISUFST as we continue to integrate digital technologies into our systems and curriculum, enhancing both the quality of education and operational efficiency.”
The conference also included discussions on addressing connectivity challenges, improving digital services, and eradicating red tape through digitalization. Secretary Ernesti Perez, Director-General of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), highlighted how digital solutions could ease government transactions and reduce bureaucratic delays. The event also featured the ceremonial signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding for eGovernment, aiming to streamline public sector digital services further.
As the CIO Council moves forward, it will focus on initiatives such as standardizing data gathering protocols across agencies and optimizing shared data center backup systems, which are expected to result in significant cost savings and more efficient public service delivery (Photos and Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
Isufst Prof. Completes Halal Food Training in Indonesia, Plans Curriculum Integration
Food processing expert Prof. Cjay Soliven, a faculty member of the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) College of Fisheries an Aquatic Sciences (CFAS), has successfully completed the prestigious Short Course on Halal Food Standard Compliance in Jakarta, Indonesia. The course, part of the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Higher Education Upskilling and Study for Advancement of Staff and Faculty (HUSAY) Program, ran from November 25 to December 4, 2024, at Universitas Bakrie.
The 10-day training, which covered essential Halal standards, processes, and production aspects, has equipped Prof. Soliven with specialized knowledge that he intends to integrate into ISUFST’s Bachelor of Science in Fisheries program. He plans to draw inspiration from Indonesia’s well-established Halal ecosystem, applying best practices to the university’s curriculum and research. Prof. Soliven, a top 5 Fisheries Technologist Board Exam topnotcher in October 2016, emphasized that this initiative will not only strengthen the program’s relevance and standards but also promote inclusivity in the predominantly non-Christian communities of the region.
“The insights gained from today’s session will significantly contribute to ISUFST, particularly under the Bachelor of Science in Fisheries program,” Soliven said. “By understanding the essentials, standards, processes, and production aspects of Halal compliance, I can help integrate these critical elements into our curriculum. Drawing inspiration from Indonesia’s strong Halal ecosystem, we can benchmark and apply similar successful practices.”
He also highlighted the opportunity to develop courses and modules focusing on Halal principles and market dynamics, equipping students with competencies in Halal compliance and increasing their employability. “This approach will not only develop our students’ competencies in Halal compliance but also raise awareness and foster inclusivity,” he added.
Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., President of ISUFST, expressed support for Prof. Soliven’s initiative, stating, “This opportunity reflects ISUFST’s unwavering commitment to fostering excellence and integrity in education. By equipping our faculty with specialized training, we are paving the way for our students and community to embrace sustainable practices and innovations.”
Prof. Soliven’s participation in this program aligns with ISUFST’s commitment to becoming a leader in fisheries, agriculture, and technology research in Southeast Asia. His efforts contribute to the university’s broader goal of equipping graduates with the specialized knowledge needed to meet industry demands and contribute to sustainable development. (Photos by Cjay Soliven/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
ISUFST Hosts International Fisheries Modeling Training Backed By French Embassy
Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo—The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) opened its doors this week to a dynamic blend of local and international experts, students, and researchers, all united by a shared mission: advancing sustainable fisheries practices. The week-long training on fisheries management and agent-based modeling, supported by the French Embassy through the “Youth and Oceans” Fund, kicked off on November 25 at the ISUFST Main Campus-Tiwi Site, setting the stage for five days of collaboration, innovation, and learning.
In collaboration with the National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD) and Blue Nations, the weeklong training aims to equip participants with innovative tools to model and analyze complex fisheries systems. With lectures, hands-on group projects, and high-tech simulations, the event highlights the critical role of technology in addressing challenges in marine resource management.
“This initiative is a testament to our shared commitment to sustainability, particularly in the fisheries sector, which is crucial to the livelihoods of millions,” said ISUFST Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Johnny Dolor in his welcome remarks this morning, November 25.
ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. highlighted the significance of such initiatives in advancing the university’s mission. “This training exemplifies our goal to integrate technology and innovation in education to address real-world challenges. By engaging in global collaborations, we prepare our students to be leaders in sustainable development, particularly in fisheries management,” he said.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga also emphasized the importance of the training, stating, “This program not only strengthens the technical expertise of our students and faculty but also reaffirms ISUFST’s mission to be at the forefront of advancing sustainable practices in fisheries. It’s a privilege to work alongside global experts to nurture the next generation of environmental stewards.”
A highlight of the program is the presence of international experts such as Arnaud Grignard and Tri Nguyen-Huu, researchers from IRD’s UMMISCO Lab, and Julius Millano Bañgate, a researcher from the IGN French National Geographical Institute. Their expertise introduces participants to cutting-edge methodologies, including agent-based modeling—a powerful tool for simulating human and ecological interactions in fisheries systems.
While giving the training overview, Tri Nguyen-Huu, Head of Science for Complex Models at IRD, emphasized that the youth are vital to the future of sustainable fisheries. He highlighted that engaging with advanced modeling tools enables them to gain valuable insights into managing ocean resources more effectively.
Empowering the next generation
The training involves fisheries and information technology students, faculty members in fisheries and science education, and school’s top-performing fisheries board passers. All participants are immersed in activities aimed at enhancing their fisheries management skills. Participants engage in lectures, project inception workshops, and collaborative group activities, culminating in the presentation of their outputs on November 29.
This opportunity bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application for many attendees. One student observed that the training effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. By working in a simulated environment, participants gain valuable insights into the consequences of their decisions, equipping them to navigate the complexities of managing marine ecosystems.
A commitment to excellence
The event also underscores ISUFST’s commitment to fostering global partnerships. As Dr. Jeanette Bayona, Director of International Affairs and Linkages, emphasizes, “Collaboration with institutions like IRD and the French Embassy helps elevate the university’s role in addressing global challenges in fisheries and sustainability.”
The training will close on November 29 with presentations of project outputs, certificates awarded, and closing messages from Dr. Rolindo Demo-Os, Dean of the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, and Dr. Renante Diamante, Dean of the College of Information and Communication Technology.
As the event progresses, the ISUFST community continues to embrace innovation, aiming to lead in sustainable development for fisheries management across Western Visayas and beyond. (Photos by Julius Ruger Hermano/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
2 ISUFST Faculty Present Studies in International Stem Research Conference at UP Diliman
Two faculty members from Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) presented their innovative research on November 21–23 at the International Conference on STEM Education (ICSTEM), hosted by the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED). “Advancing STEM Education through Emerging Technologies, Innovative Pedagogies, and Responsive Curricula” was the focus of this international conference of researchers and teachers.
Attracting hundreds of participants in person and virtually, the hybrid international conference held in UP Diliman featured concurrent and plenary sessions, including speakers from four continents. From Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the US, and the Philippines, distinguished teachers, researchers, and edtech specialists from each country examined transforming leadership, new technologies, and curriculum changes impacting STEM education.
Presented by ISUFST’s College of Education’s Dr. Herman Lagon was his study entitled, “Integrating ChatGPT in Math Education: A Narrative Inquiry into Mathematical Investigation, Mathematical Modeling, and Mathematical Discovery.” His study examined how ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence tools might improve student involvement and problem-solving ability. “AI-driven tools offer dynamic and interactive learning experiences, equipping students with critical thinking skills and a strong sense of agency essential for today’s digital world. At the same time, these tools free up teachers to focus on providing personalized and individualized instruction,” Dr. Lagon said, adding, “This chance to speak internationally draws attention to ISUFST’s commitment to innovative education. With this, we truly appreciate the university’s consistent support of faculty research.”
Joining Lagon was Mr. John Mark Burila, a College of Education chemistry teacher who presented his paper “Musichemistry: Effects on Learners’ Motivation, Engagement, and Proficiency in Chemistry.” His study explored how integrating music into chemistry lessons can make complex concepts more relatable and engaging for students, improving their motivation and understanding. “Musichemistry transforms abstract ideas into relatable and enjoyable lessons,” Burila noted. ” As a physical science teacher, it’s incredibly fulfilling to see students become genuinely engaged and motivated, especially when they connect challenging concepts to real-life applications and approach learning with curiosity and enthusiasm.”
ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. appreciated the faculty’s achievements, upholding the institution’s vision of becoming “a leading and empowering research university in fisheries, agriculture, education, and technology in Southeast Asia by 2030.” Dr. Siason remarked, “Our faculty’s participation in ICSTEM in UP Diliman exemplifies our dedication to excellence and commitment to contributing to the global conversation on advancing STEM education.”
ICSTEM 2024 celebrated the 60th anniversary of UP NISMED and emphasized collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges in STEM education, from curriculum reform to sustainability. The three-day convention, which included a daylong pre-conference, provided a platform for sharing innovative practices and fostering partnerships among participants worldwide.
Dr. Lagon and Mr. Burila’s participation highlighted ISUFST’s commitment to research and underscored the institution’s role in driving educational innovation. Their work serves as an inspiration for educators striving to create transformative learning experiences for students worldwide. (Arniel Clarite/TST/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
ISUFST Showcases Local Sustainability at Terra Madre 2024
The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has participated in the Terra Madre Visayas event at the Capitol Grounds in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, from November 19 to 24, 2024. Sponsored by Slow Food Negros, the event brought together chefs, sommeliers, media personalities, educators, and food enthusiasts focused on preserving traditional foodways, supporting local farmers, and promoting sustainability.
ISUFST was represented by Dr. Joana Paula Binas, Director of Extension Services and Development, along with her team. As a member of the Slow Food Educators of Panay, ISUFST showcased its bottled bangus, reflecting its commitment to local producers and sustainable practices.
Dr. Binas stated, “Our participation demonstrates our dedication to promoting local products and advancing sustainable food practices. By collaborating with local farmers and educators, we aim to empower communities and ensure that our culinary heritage is preserved for future generations.”
ISUFST President Nordy Siason Jr. expressed his support, saying, “Participating in Terra Madre Visayas aligns perfectly with our mission to foster sustainable practices in food production. We are proud to showcase our innovations and to stand with our local farmers in promoting a sustainable future for our region.”
Dr. Mary Rose Rodriguez, Chair of Slow Food Educators of Panay, presented her new book, “The Cultural Heritage of Antique,” which compiles culinary recipes that highlight the region’s culinary traditions.
The Slow Food Educators of Panay is planning a campaign on Panay Island to raise awareness about local food traditions and support small-scale producers. The group will also participate in the Terra Madre Asia Pacific 2025 in Bacolod City.
The Negros event was attended by notable guests, including Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson, Bacolod City Mayor Albie Benitez, and Victorias City Mayor Javi Benitez, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting sustainability.
ISUFST’s involvement in events like Terra Madre Visayas highlights its commitment to sustainability and support for local producers. Through initiatives such as its bottled bangus and collaborations within the Slow Food movement, ISUFST continues to advocate for good, clean, and fair food for all. (Joana Paula Binas/ESD/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
RSCUAA Screening Team gets positive feedback in 3-Day Eligibility Process
The committee responsible for the screening of athletes’ eligibility documents during the Western Visayas (WV) Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) RSCUAA Sports Festival and Conference 2024 has received an outpouring of positive feedback from participants and organizers alike. This year’s screening process took place from November 23-25, 2024, at the ISUFST Main Campus in Poblacion Site, ICT Technohub, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo. This is a vital part in the conduct of the ISUFST-hosted West Visayas RSCUAA Sprots Festival and Conference 2024 themed “One Western Visayas: Promoting Peace, Inclusivity, and Well-Being through Sports” and set this December 15-20, 2024.
Messages of gratitude highlight the team’s exceptional organization and warm hospitality. One participant remarked, “Congratulations, Eligibility Screening Team! Your preparation was top-notch. Thank you for the warm accommodation! ISDABEST gid ya!” Another expressed appreciation for the “well-organized eligibility checking of documents,” extending thanks to Ma’am Fatima Par and the ISUFST Team.
Additional messages conveyed heartfelt thanks, such as, “Sa aming nga kaibigan sa ISUFST, maraming salamat sa kabutihan,” and praised the team’s efforts with “Hat’s off to Ma’am Fatima Par [Parreño, the University Registrar] and ISUFST Team. Indeed, you are ISDABEST!”
With compliance due today, November 27, 2024, the overwhelming support reflects the dedication and hard work of the eligibility screening team, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all involved. Thank you to everyone for your kind words! (Photos by Ricky Ramos/Text by Herman Lagon/ PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/PAMMCO)
ISUFST GAD Launches 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women
Tiwi, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo — Today, November 25, the Gender and Development (GAD) Office of Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Main Campus – Tiwi Site launched the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women during the campus flag ceremony. The campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 12, 2024, aims to raise awareness and promote action against gender-based violence.
Through this initiative, ISUFST demonstrates its ongoing commitment to fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for all members of the university community.
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Photos by Jecel Mae To-ong and Carl Robert Barinos /Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
ISUFST educators shine at ICTED 2024
Teacher-Researchers from the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) showcased their groundbreaking studies at the 11th International Conference on Teacher Education (ICTED), held November 13-15, 2024, at the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON) in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. Centered on the theme “Preparing Teachers for Education 5.0 Toward Sustainable Futures: Thrusts, Challenges, and Praxis,” the conference highlighted innovative approaches to leveraging technology for sustainable, inclusive learning environments.
ISUFST researchers presented studies that underscored the university’s dedication to advancing educational practices. Dr. Ronilo Aponte, together with advisees Hannah Marie Failanza and Camila De los Reyes, explored how game-based learning enhances students’ understanding of mitosis through their study, “Four Games, One exCELLent Goal: Investigating the Effectiveness of Game-Based Learning on Learners’ Understanding and Experiences in Mitosis.” The research demonstrated the potential of interactive learning in improving educational outcomes.
Dr. Shiela May Labajo’s presentation, “Family Reading Practices and Parents’ Involvement on Learners’ Reading Performance in English,” emphasized the vital role of family reading habits and parental involvement in boosting students’ literacy skills. Meanwhile, Michle Celeste introduced photovoice as a reflective tool in her study, “Lens on the Classroom: Photovoice as a Reflective Tool for Pre-Service Teachers’ Narrative Writing,” showcasing its effectiveness in enabling pre-service teachers to document and reflect on their classroom experiences.
Adding to ISUFST’s presence, John Mark P. Burila, a faculty member from the Main Tiwi Site and a PhD Education student at UP Diliman, served as a facilitator in the Program Committee, working with local organizers from UP Visayas. Burila reflected on the significance of the conference, noting that it underscored the need for educators to integrate technology with purpose, equity, and sustainability, ensuring that learning remains meaningful in an ever-changing world.
ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., commended the researchers for their contributions to the conference, emphasizing the university’s commitment to fostering a research-driven academic culture. Dr. Siason highlighted that the achievements of ISUFST’s faculty and researchers reflect the institution’s dedication to realizing its vision of becoming “a leading and empowering research university in fisheries, agriculture, education, and technology in Southeast Asia by 2030.” He noted that participation in international platforms such as ICTED affirms the university’s role in shaping innovative and inclusive education.
The ICTED conference, organized by the University of the Philippines College of Education, brought together educators, policymakers, and researchers to discuss the integration of technology, socio-economic challenges, and cultural diversity in education. This year’s conference explored critical themes such as Artificial Intelligence, STEM, inclusive education, and teacher development, offering actionable insights into preparing educators for Education 5.0.
The participation of ISUFST in ICTED 2024 underscores its commitment to advancing educational research and innovation while promoting its guiding principles of Integrity, Social Justice, Discipline, and Academic Excellence. The event also reaffirmed the shared responsibility of educators to foster sustainable futures through meaningful and inclusive education practices. (Photos by JM Burila/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
ISUFST and DLSU ink historic agreement to establish UN SDGs-driven Policy Center
Manila, November 13, 2024–In a landmark event at De La Salle University (DLSU) on Taft Avenue, Manila, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between DLSU and the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), cementing their partnership to strengthen academic collaboration and spearhead a Policy Center dedicated to localizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The ceremonial signing, held this Wednesday morning, formalized both the general memorandum of agreement (MOA) and the initiative to create a Policy Center in Iloilo, which will drive research and community engagement focused on sustainable development and fisheries science.
Dr. Robert Roleda, DLSU Provost, and Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., ISUFST President, represented their respective institutions at the signing. Dr. Siason highlighted the collaboration’s transformative potential, noting, “This partnership marks a significant step forward in promoting knowledge-sharing and collaborative research in fisheries, agriculture, management, education, and technology, which will have a long-term impact on both institutions and the communities they serve.” He emphasized that the Policy Center would play a pivotal role in bringing research-driven, sustainable practices to communities outside Metro Manila.
The event was attended by key figures, including ISUFST’s Director of Research and Development, Dr. Jescel Bito-onon; Director of Gender and Development, Dr. Lenirose Mondero; and Legal Counsel, Atty. Joey Mondero, and DLSU’s Dr. Franciso Magno, Dr. Jason Hecita, and Prof. Eddie Nuque, underscoring the broad support for the initiative. Another first for ISUFST, the UN SDG Policy Center, grounded in mutual objectives of academic excellence and research innovation, will not only support SDG-aligned policy but will also facilitate future projects, joint research endeavors, and faculty-student exchanges, reinforcing both universities’ commitment to impactful, community-focused education and development.
By establishing this Policy Center, ISUFST and DLSU seek to localize the UN SDG 17’s principle of “Partnership for the Goals,” creating a model for sustainable and localized SDG initiatives across the country. This collaboration aligns with ISUFST’s vision of extending its academic reach and DLSU’s mission to foster transformative, socially relevant education, paving the way for enhanced contributions to the scientific and educational landscapes nationwide. (Photos by Nordy Siason, Jr. and Jescel Bito-onon/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
